Physical Science Research Funding
Adopted by the Council on April 15, 2005
Last approved by the council on Oct. 23, 2025
Federal investments by agencies such as DOE, NSF, NASA, DOD and NIST are indispensable to the vitality of our nation’s research programs in physics and the physical sciences. These investments are essential for maintaining economic growth and generating jobs; ensuring national, homeland, and energy security; educating and training the workforce of the future; and contributing to disciplines such as biomedicine and engineering.
The American Physical Society urges increased federal support of the physical sciences, which studies and reports consistently identify as a critical need [1].
[1] Selected publications:
- National Academy of Sciences, National Academy of Engineering, and Institute of Medicine, “Rising Above the Gathering Storm: Energizing and Employing America for a Brighter Economic Future,” 2007
- American Academy of Arts and Sciences, “Restoring the Foundation: The Vital Role of Research in Preserving the American Dream,” 2014
- American Academy of Arts and Sciences, “The Perils of Complacency, America at a Tipping Point in Science & Engineering,” 2020
- The Science Coalition, “Sparking American Economic Growth,” 2025
The review process for any statement may be started at any time if deemed necessary by the Panel on Public Affairs, and at least once every five years.