Innovation Task Force Unveils New Website On The Physical Sciences And Engineering

Newswise — The Task Force on American Innovation today unveiled a new website, www.innovationtaskforce.org, which offers fresh and comprehensive information on federal policies and appropriations for key agencies that fund research in the physical sciences, engineering, and mathematics.

The task force, an alliance of America's most innovative companies, leading research universities, and major scientific societies, was founded in 2004 to advocate stronger, sustained federal investment in basic research in the physical sciences and engineering. The task force focuses on research supported by the National Science Foundation, the Department of Energy Office of Science, the Department of Defense, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, and NASA.

The organizations that belong to the task force believe that America remains a global innovation leader but that our competitors are closing the gap and in some instances widening their lead. America must improve in areas such as basic research in the physical sciences and engineering; math and science education; and tapping the best global talent for innovation here at home.

Basic research leads to innovation -- new products and services, new ways to address our greatest challenges, even entirely new industries. That means high-value jobs, a better quality of life, and a competitive economy. From the internet, to magnetic resonance imaging, to solar panels, basic research has proven to be one of America's best investments.

The task force website is unique in its focus on federal policy in the physical sciences. It is intended to serve as a tool for policymakers, such as congressional staff and agency officials, as well as the news media, constituents of task force member organizations, and the general public. It will contain up-to-date information on appropriations for key agencies, relevant authorization legislation, press releases and news stories on federally funded research, links to science news, and information on the economic and other impacts of basic research in the physical sciences.