Hot R&D topics

The October issue of Eye on Innovation discussed the state of R&D worldwide. Delving further into Dialog scientific literature, news sources and government publications, we learn more about how the U.S. government plans to spend its R&D dollars.

Despite its relatively modest share of total U.S. R&D funding, the federal government's role is critical to the nation's growth in science and technology. Federal agencies support nearly two-thirds (60.2 percent) of the R&D performed in U.S. colleges and universities, most of which, (75.9 percent) is basic research. At the same time, federally-funded research at colleges and universities plays a key role in educating the next generation of scientists and engineers. Moreover, government-maintained labs, industrial firms and R&D centers under government contracts and non-profit institutions are also conducting R&D.

Look for the following areas to drive expanded R&D funding and be supported in U.S. research labs over the next five to seven years:

• Stem cells — Following the Executive Order from President Obama of federal funds for research on human embryonic stem cell (HESC) lines, a dramatic expansion of stem cell research conducted and funded by the federal government is expected with the National Institutes of Health (NIH) leading the way. A Discovery Guide review article provides more information on stem cells.
• Personalized medicine — Rapid discoveries involving the human genome, gene expression, and their relation to disease foster results in emerging personalized medicine. Pharmaceutical and diagnostics companies are now partnering to develop companion diagnostics and therapeutics utilizing the fundamental research and methodologies initiated from academic research institutions.
• Nanotechnology — Growth in the nanotechnology field is due in part to awareness of its potential for creating new products across many industries. Many universities have created nanotechnology-focused laboratories that continue to be at the forefront of nanotechnology research. Additionally, a substantial amount of research is currently underway to investigate the long-term health effects and risks of working with manufacturing and integrating nanoparticle-based materials into products. See the Discovery Guide review article for more information.

Science and technology are recognized as key drivers of economic growth, as well as improved health and quality of life throughout the world. Economists estimate that up to half of U.S. economic growth over the past five decades is due to advances in technology. It is vital, then, for the United States to continue its leadership in the world of R&D.

back to top