National Academy of Sciences (NAS) is an organization that promotes research in the behavioral, biological, physical, and social sciences in the United States. The NAS advises the U.S. government on scientific matters, but it is not a government agency. The NAS consists of about 2,000 U.S. scientists elected for life for their achievements in research. The NAS also includes about 350 scientists from other countries elected as foreign associates. Members of the NAS elect new members and foreign associates each year. The NAS has its headquarters in Washington, D.C.
The NAS was established in 1863 by an act of Congress. The NAS charter requires the organization to provide free advice to the government on scientific matters in addition to engaging in other scientific activities. The NAS created the National Research Council in 1916, the National Academy of Engineering in 1964, and the Institute of Medicine (now called the National Academy of Medicine) in 1970. Together with the NAS, these organizations are known as the National Academies.
See also National Academies ; National Research Council .
