The State of U.S. Science and Engineering 2024
March 2024
The global competitiveness of the United States is supported through the nation’s STEM talent, R&D-driven discovery, and translation of knowledge into the economy and society through innovation. The United States is the largest performer of R&D, but the overall balance of global science and engineering (S&E) resources and activity continues a long-term shift toward other areas of the world. The United States is distinguished by the strength of U.S. universities as destinations for international students, its highly cited and collaborative S&E research, and its leadership in high-technology services.
Continue Reading >Production and Trade of Knowledge- and Technology-Intensive Industries
April 2024
Knowledge- and technology-intensive (KTI) industries are those with high and medium-high R&D intensity. They include 10 manufacturing and 3 services industries. This report discusses U.S. and global KTI production patterns and international trade. The report shows that KTI industries value added account for about a 10th of U.S. GDP. In 2022, China and the United States were the top two producers of KTI output, each representing over a quarter of global KTI value added. And China has been the leading KTI manufacturing exporter since 2008. In 2022, the United States and Germany were the next largest KTI goods exporters.
Continue Reading >Invention, Knowledge Transfer, and Innovation
February 2024
The practical application of science and technology starts with invention and leads to innovation, job creation, and new business formation. Every sector, including governments and universities, plays an important part in these activities through knowledge transfer activities. This thematic report provides patent data by technology area and geography to illustrate trends in invention in the United States and internationally. Relevant data on trademarks are also presented. In addition, indicators are included that measure the transfer of knowledge and technologies from federal agencies and universities to businesses. Trends in the financing of innovation are presented through data on federal funding for small businesses and venture capital investments.
Continue Reading >Science and Technology: Public Perceptions, Awareness, and Information Sources
February 2024
This report describes confidence in science, understanding of scientific research and new topics such as neurotechnology and artificial intelligence, and engagement with science through media and scientific activities. The majority of U.S. adults—77% as of September 2022—express at least a fair amount of confidence in scientists to act in the public interest. Evidence also suggests perceptions of new science and technology topics may change as experiences grow. U.S. adults with greater understanding of scientific logic tend to express more trust in scientists to act in society’s best interests than do those with less understanding.
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