Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The U.S. Department of Energy oversees 17 National Laboratories, leading institutions for scientific innovation addressing large-scale, complex research challenges through a multidisciplinary approach.
Among these, three primary laboratories managed by the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) are essential to maintaining the safety, security, and effectiveness of the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile without nuclear testing. These NNSA labs also conduct research in counterterrorism, nonproliferation, and nuclear threat reduction.
Together, these laboratories employ thousands of the nation's top scientists and engineers, who apply diverse expertise to solve national security challenges and advance scientific discovery across many fields. The labs also tackle critical scientific challenges such as combating climate change and exploring the origins of the universe, using unique instruments and facilities not found elsewhere in the world.
Originating from government investment in scientific research during World War II, the National Laboratories have contributed to America's technological competitiveness and continue to translate basic science into innovative solutions.