Homeland Security harnesses our nation’s scientific and technological resources to provide Federal, state, and local officials with the technology and capabilities to protect the homeland.  One area of focus for the Department is catastrophic terrorism—threats to the security of our homeland that could result in large-scale loss of life and major economic impact.  Research is designed to counter threats to the homeland, both by evolutionary improvements to current capabilities and development of revolutionary, new capabilities.

Building an Enduring Research Capability

Intramural programs in research, development, testing, and evaluation—along with support to university and fellowship programs—provides the nation with a long-term research and development capability dedicated to homeland security.  Key components of the intramural activities are the Office of National Laboratories and the Homeland Security Laboratories through the Department’s Science and Technology Directorate.  More about the Directorate >>

Supporting Critical Infrastructure Protection through Research & Development

Homeland Security Presidential Directive-7 (HSPD-7) called for a national critical infrastructure protection research and development plan to address the sustained science, engineering, and technology base needed to prevent or minimize the impact of future attacks on our physical and cyber infrastructure systems. The National Critical Infrastructure Protection Research and Development Plan was developed through an intensive, collaborative, interagency effort. This public document highlights the targeted investments needed to help secure and fortify the Nation's key infrastructures and resources from acts of terrorism, natural disasters, or other emergencies.  Download National Critical Infrastructure Protection Research and Development Plan  (PDF, 96 pages -- 2 MB)  

Upcoming Events In Science & Technology

8th Annual Technologies for Critical Incident Preparedness Conference & Exposition 2006 The Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate, Department of Justice (DOJ) National Institute of Justice and Department of Defense (DoD) Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense present the 8th Annual Technologies for Critical Incident Preparedness Conference and Exposition on September 6-8, 2006.  This conference will highlight the technology and training tools currently available and being developed for the first responder community.  It is a unique opportunity for first responders, business and industry, academia and elected federal, state, local, and tribal stakeholders to network, exchange ideas and address common critical incident technology and preparedness needs and solutions.  For more information, visit the conference web site. (Link leaves federal government Web site).

The Second National Conference on Environmental Sampling and Detection for Bio-Threat Agents will take place October 25-27, 2006, in New York City. The Conference is the premier forum for dialogue between government, industry, academia, and first responders to address critical issues in environmental sampling and bio-detection. The Conference is co-sponsored by the Chemical Biological Medical Systems, the Department of Homeland Security, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Joint Project Manager for Biological Defense, the Technical Support Working Group, and the Environmental Protection Agency. For further information, visit:the conference web site. (Link leaves federal government Web site).

The 4th International Aviation Security Technology Symposium will be held in Washington, D.C.,  November 27 through December 1, 2006. For further information, visit the conference web site. (Link leaves federal government Web site).

Turning Ideas into Reality

Partnering with industry, universities and other government agencies helps to find, develop, and demonstrate innovative ideas.  The Homeland Security Advanced Research Projects Agency (HSARPA) is responsible for jump starting and facilitating research and development efforts to help address critical needs on the homeland defense scientific front—quickly moving technologies from development into testing and deployment.

Strengthening, Broadening U.S. Leadership in Science and Technology

Congress mandated the Department of Homeland Security to support U.S. leadership in science and technology.  In response, the Department of Homeland Security funds undergraduate and graduate fellowship and scholarship programs, and establishes academic Centers of Excellence focused on specific homeland security issues.

Working with Industry to Protect the Nation

Congress enacted the SAFETY Act to encourage the development and deployment of anti-terrorism technologies to protect of the nation.  Part of the Homeland Security Act of 2002, the Support Anti-terrorism by Fostering Effective Technologies (SAFETY) Act provides “risk management” and “litigation management” protections for sellers of qualified anti-terrorism technologies and others in the supply and distribution chain.  For more information see www.safetyact.gov.

Connecting Public Safety Professionals

The challenge of communications interoperability has plagued public safety agencies for decades. Together, technology, and leadership can give first responders and public safety agencies the ability to exchange voice and data on demand, in real time, when needed and as authorized.  The Office for Interoperability and Compatibility coordinates the Federal response to these challenges. The SAFECOM Program addressees the wireless communication needs of public safety organizations.

Developing Standards

Standards help public safety agencies select equipment and tools that are safe, effective, and reliable. Using radios, protective equipment, and procedures that follow standards means that firefighters, police, hazmat, and other emergency professionals can better communicate and work together.  The Department of Homeland Security works to develop and approve standards that can be used to ensure the effectiveness of scientific and technological tools critical for homeland security.  More information on standards >>

Research Areas (Portfolios)

The Department of Homeland Security Science and Technology Directorate conducts and funds research in various areas, or portfolios, organized into three main categories; (1) Countermeasures; (2) Support to Department Components; and (3) Cross-Cutting. More information on Science and Technology Research Areas >>