The White House has announced its fiscal year 2027 research and development priorities, with artificial intelligence and quantum science taking center stage. The administration aims to secure US leadership in these critical areas by focusing on fundamental research and applied engineering.
According to the memo, AI has the potential to be a new frontier for exploration and breakthroughs in science and industry. The administration plans to invest in novel AI paradigms and computing architectures to realize AI applications such as accelerated scientific discovery, nuclear fission and fusion, quantum energy science, advanced space analytics, and remote sensing and navigation.
The priorities also emphasize the importance of quantum science, with a focus on developing consortia to support R&D efforts, investing in testbeds and other critical infrastructure, and boosting efforts to manufacture next-generation quantum devices.
Critical and Emerging Technologies: The administration is prioritizing investments in AI, quantum information science and technology, semiconductors and microelectronics, advanced communication networks, advanced manufacturing, and future computing technologies.
Energy Dominance: The memo encourages federal investment in affordable, reliable, and secure energy technologies, including fossil fuels, advanced nuclear fission and fusion, geothermal, and hydropower.
National and Economic Security: The administration aims to strengthen American security by advancing US military capabilities, investing in cybersecurity capabilities, and implementing President Donald Trump's vision for a "Golden Dome" missile defense shield.
Space Leadership: The priorities include backing crewed missions to the Moon and Mars, supporting basic and applied R&D in areas such as novel sensing modalities and radiation belt remediation.
The administration's focus on AI and quantum science reflects its commitment to driving economic growth, improving national security, and advancing scientific discovery. By prioritizing investments in these areas, the US aims to maintain its leadership in critical technologies and stay ahead of the competition.
