Engineers bridge the gap between what the mind can imagine
and what the laws of nature allow. While scientists seek
to discover what is not yet known, engineers apply fundamental
science to design and develop new devices and systems
to solve societal problems. Science and engineering are
essential partners in paving the way for America’s
future.
Engineering research opens up new areas for technology
and scientific discovery such as
- novel medical treatments, including new antibiotics
- new sensors and sensor networks to enhance homeland
security
- new tools and methods to enhance the structural integrity
of buildings and infrastructure
- new technologies to enable ultrafast computers and
ultra-small nanoscale manufacturing
A priority of the National Science Foundation (NSF) is to develop the next generation of American engineers to
become technology leaders and innovators.
Many NSF programs fund engineers. In fiscal year 2003, the Engineering
Directorate alone provided roughly $451 million in support
for research and education activities.
NSF also plays a key role in supporting small business research
to help drive innovation and commercialization of novel products
and processes. The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs target small businesses and their partners
at universities, enabling the companies to pursue high-risk
science and engineering research that could one day prove
both useful and economically valuable. In fiscal year 2003, NSF provided
nearly $95 million to support small business programs.
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