The Materials Research Society (MRS) contributes to the development of science and technology policy in materials-related fields by responding to, and initiating, opportunities to interact nationally and internationally with government officials and public and private organizations. Led by the MRS Government Affairs Committee (GAC), these volunteer-powered efforts have been far-reaching, consistent and unbiased, building trust and respect in Washington, D.C., both on Capitol Hill and within government agencies. When deemed necessary, MRS also teams with other professional societies to create a larger voice for the materials field—to broaden the dissemination, implementation and understanding of materials-related policy for the benefit of society.
The current economic climate poses many challenges for MRS and the materials community, whose research priorities are critically affected by both federal and international mandates. With that in mind, the GAC continues to work diligently to provide timely information on emerging public policy issues, federal programs and other activities of importance to its members and others in the materials community.
MRS is an interdisciplinary society with members worldwide that advocate for materials science and innovation. We seek to engage our members in advocacy, to educate policymakers on the importance of materials innovations, and to engage with the broader scientific and engineering community in support of sustained funding for research.