Investments in engineering research and education are critical building blocks for the nation's future prosperity.
We support engineering research that addresses national challenges — such as smart manufacturing, resilient infrastructure and sustainable energy systems — and brings about new innovations, from biotechnologies to semiconductors.
NSF-backed breakthroughs include "smart bandages" to detect infection, a "smart sponge" to clean up oil spills, an ankle exoskeleton that might one day help the mobility-impaired to walk, limb-inspired bridge designs to better withstand earthquakes, high-tech waterproof materials modeled after cicada wings, and much more.
What we support
Chemical engineering
We support the development of new approaches and materials that improve the efficiency, resource use and yield of chemical processes.
Visit the Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental and Transport Systems
Mechanical engineering
We support research on the mechanics of materials and structures, biomechanics, dynamical systems, robotics and more.
Visit the Division of Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation
Electrical engineering
We support research on electronics, computing, communications, power and quantum technologies for future devices, systems and networks.
Visit the Division of Electrical, Communications and Cyber Systems
Visit the Directorate for Computer and Information Science and Engineering
Civil engineering
We support research on infrastructure materials; architectural, geotechnical and structural engineering; and the design and management of infrastructure systems.
Visit the Division of Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation
Bioengineering
We support research that integrates engineering and the life sciences to advance biotechnologies and human health.
Visit the Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental and Transport Systems
Environmental engineering and sustainability
We support research on sustainable engineering and systems that support the natural environment, reduce pollution and improve its environmental and human impacts.
Visit the Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental and Transport Systems
Advanced manufacturing
We support research with the potential to revitalize American manufacturing by fundamentally changing manufacturing capabilities, methods and practices.
Visit the Division of Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation
Operations and design
We support research on design, operations, optimization and control to advance the engineered and socio-technical systems that are critical to society.
Visit the Division of Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation
Education and training
We support the creation of 21st century engineers across the U.S. through education research and workforce development programs.
Related topics
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Educational resources
View lesson plans, activities and multimedia for K–12 audiences that focus on exploring engineering.
View the resources