The Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) is the science advisor to the Secretary and serves as the research and development arm of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Established by Congress in 2003, S&T conducts basic and applied research, development, testing and evaluation activities in alignment with the DHS mission. We do the science that strengthens the nation’s overall security, and develop and transition the technologies that allow those on the front lines to effectively and safely complete their missions.

We provide evidence-based scientific and technical perspectives to address a range of current and emerging threats—from aviation security to chemical and biological detection to critical infrastructure, resilience, climate and natural disasters, cybersecurity, and beyond. We work hand in hand with fellow DHS component agencies, first responders at all levels, emergency management and public safety personnel, and partners from across the public and private spectrums to develop timely and innovative solutions to meet today’s challenges and tomorrow’s opportunities.

S&T is uniquely positioned to understand the ever-changing homeland security landscape and shape the Department’s, and the nation’s, strategic R&D agenda. By leveraging relationships with our network of partners, we remain an effective catalyst for improving the strength and resilience of our nation.

Mission

S&T’s mission is to enable effective, efficient, and secure operations across all homeland security missions by applying scientific, engineering, analytic, and innovative approaches to deliver timely solutions and support departmental acquisitions.

• Read S&T’s 2021 Strategic Plan 
• View S&T’s 2020 Year-in-Review Accomplishments

Watch how S&T is rapidly developing and deploying technologies that make a mission-critical impact.