National Research Council is a private, nonprofit organization in the United States that carries out much of the research of the National Academies. The National Academies include the council and the National Academy of Sciences, the National Academy of Engineering, and the National Academy of Medicine. The council aids the other academies in promoting the development of science and technology and in advising the U.S. government and other groups. Thousands of scientists, scholars, and researchers serve as volunteers on its study committees.
The National Research Council was created by the National Academy of Sciences in 1916. It undertakes most of its activities at the request of the U.S. government. The council also initiates its own studies and carries out research at the request of private foundations and other organizations. Its headquarters are in Washington, D.C.
See also National Academies; National Academy of Sciences.
