About the Directorate for Engineering (ENG)
Investments in engineering research and education are critical building blocks for the nation's future prosperity. Engineering breakthroughs address national challenges, such as smart manufacturing, resilient infrastructure and sustainable energy systems. Engineering also brings about new opportunities in areas ranging from advanced photonics to prosthetic devices.
Research funded by the National Science Foundation's (NSF) Directorate for Engineering (ENG) has enriched the understanding of natural systems, enhanced electronics, fortified the nation's infrastructure and introduced the exciting possibilities of engineering to the next generation.
Learn how the NSF Directorate for Engineering is Making Future Technologies Possible (2014, PDF, 1.0MB) and how engineers are Making Imagination Real (2004, PDF, 4.2MB).
Engineering Special Reports
Long-term federal investments in fundamental science and engineering research have led to novel machines that safely partner with people in nearly every environment.
Engineering researchers are creating new ways to handle drought, chemical spills and water purification. Imagine a clean water future.
Lasers have long energized our imaginations, bringing us light sabers and holodecks. In reality, light-based technologies, based on basic properties, materials and designs, enable our modern lifestyles.
Disasters don't have to be disastrous. Engineering advances enable buildings and infrastructure to better withstand any size of natural, technological or malicious hazard.
Droughts, floods and pests test the resilience of our agricultural systems as demand for a cheap, reliable food supply grows. Engineers continue to provide new tools to raise agricultural production and efficiency.
Engineers work to understand and harness the power of the brain. Explore how neurotechnologies are becoming a seamless part of daily life.
Rapid, efficient customization is becoming a reality for high-tech engineers, students and "maker" enthusiasts. Explore the remarkable advances that may transform manufacturing forever.
ENG home page image credits
Cells Credit: Silvia Ferrari, Mechanical Engineering and Materials Science, Duke University
Manufacturing Credit: ung_tom/Shutterstock.com
Farming drones Credit: Julie Colton/Purdue University
Future of work Credit: Jesus Sanz/Shutterstock.com