Priming the Innovation Pump: America Needs More Scientists, Engineers, and Basic Research

摘要

Downward trends in the number of U.S. born scientists and engineers, and basic research and development are threatening U.S. national security and economic prosperity. Leadership in science and technology has long been an unrivaled U.S. advantage; however, the United States has lost and is continuing to lose ground in critical technology metrics. In today's knowledge-based economy, scientific innovation is more important to U.S. economic growth and national security than ever before. Accordingly, the United States must rebuild its foundation of competitiveness - its supply of talented scientists, engineers, and basic research and development resources - that has served Americans so well over the past 50 years. In the 21st century, U.S. success lies at the leading edge of the scientific frontier.