Areas of Interest
NCSES's mission focuses on six core areas of interest related to the U.S. science and engineering enterprise. Explore each topic and associated information below.
![Science and Engineering Workforce.](/https/ncses.nsf.gov/131/assets/143/images/a737238e-c0aa-4905-b800-a6c7f99122bb.png)
Science and Engineering Workforce
We are the leading authority on scientists and engineers, including demographics, training, employment, and career paths.
![Research and Development.](/https/ncses.nsf.gov/131/assets/143/images/8085b54e-32ba-4bd4-8b3f-f46aabb3cfe1.png)
Research and Development
We provide insight into the nation’s R&D performance and funding.
![Higher Education Research and Development.](/https/ncses.nsf.gov/131/assets/143/images/c7bc54b8-c731-443a-886c-a5a83ca79604.png)
Higher Education Research and Development
We are the principal supplier of information on R&D expenditures within higher education institutions in the United States.
![Government Funding for Science and Engineering.](/https/ncses.nsf.gov/131/assets/143/images/252fb75d-46f9-4457-867b-59dd4f8b453b.png)
Government Funding for Science and Engineering
We are the primary source of information on federal and state government funding in support of science and engineering activities across various sectors.
![STEM Education.](/https/ncses.nsf.gov/131/assets/143/images/075eda67-73d9-4bd0-abf2-b00872ca5625.png)
STEM Education
We track the condition of STEM education in the United States through empirical data collection, research, and reporting.
![Innovation and Global Competitiveness.](/https/ncses.nsf.gov/131/assets/143/images/89297a76-b0fd-401a-84a9-03fef9e2b9eb.png)
Innovation and Global Competitiveness
We report on U.S. innovation and competitiveness in science, engineering, technology, and R&D within a global context.