National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) – Profiles

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a non-regulatory federal agency within the U.S. Department of Commerce. NIST’s mission is to promote U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness by advancing measurement science, standards, and technology in ways that enhance economic security and improve quality of life.

NIST laboratories conduct world-class research, often in close collaboration with industry, which advances technology infrastructure and helps U.S. companies continually improve products and services.

NIST’s weights and measurements services support technologies ranging from nanoscale devices to encryption standards for global communication networks, and provide the basis for the fairness and efficiency of sales.

Highlighted facilities and programs include:

• Nuclear Analytical Chemistry
• Forensics
• Forensic Science Practice Groups–Organization for Scientific Area Committees
• Center for Nanoscale Science and Technology
• Fire Research Division
• Disaster and Failure Studies
• Bioscience & Health
• Building and Construction
• Chemistry
• Electronics & Telecommunications
• Energy
• Resilience
• Transportation
• Technology Partnership Office
• Small Business Innovation Research Program
• Standard Reference Materials Program

NIST’s FY 2014 resources total $850 million in direct appropriations, an estimated $47 million in service fees, and $107 million from other agencies.