Scientific discovery and technological innovation are the largest drivers of societal advancement—making the world safer, healthier, and more prosperous. For much of the 20th century, the United States was unmatched in these domains. But now we are living in an era of disruption. Competition with foreign countries has intensified, while at home the American science and technology enterprise has been taken for granted—and we see our global leadership eroding before our eyes.

Without a strong compass and rapid action, America’s primacy in science and technology will be lost and we will be unable to confront rising threats to our security, our prosperity, and our wellbeing. 

This is what brought together 70+ individuals as the VAST Task Force. The individuals of the Task Force—representing industry, academia, government, and the non-profit sector, and including early-, mid-, and senior-career perspectives—began this work in August 2024. In this intentionally brief, non-partisan document, we offer a vision of a future state in which American science and technology can continue to serve our country. We provide bold avenues for actions that will be new and sometimes disruptive, but not destructive.  

A LETTER FROM THE VAST TASK FORCE

2025

We have been guided throughout our deliberations by probing whether every element of our recommendations will: 

  • Improve American competitiveness.

  • Build and empower the vital workforce that is at the heart of our nation’s success.

  • Avoid counterproductive outcomes that delay scientific progress. 

As other countries, particularly China, have doubled down on their investments and policies for their own R&D enterprises, these competitors are closely watching our next moves and fortifying their capabilities. If we stumble in this race, it will be difficult, if not impossible, to recapture our lead—and the American people will suffer the consequences. 

We recognize the important work done by others and can see convergence around a similar set of critical actions. By bringing these ideas together, we intend to open a new era for American science and technology. (See further reading.)

That future is within reach. The opportunities before us are too great, the benefits too sweeping, and the risks of complacency and inaction all too real.

We must realize America’s vast potential together.

The Vision for American Science & Technology (VAST) charts the way for the U.S. science & technology (S&T) enterprise to support America’s global leadership. Drawing from the collective insights and experiences of an unprecedented array of leaders, VAST seeks to empower U.S. decisionmakers with a roadmap to ensure the American S&T enterprise remains the vanguard on an increasingly competitive world stage.