Science and Technology Our Work

Our Work

As the research and development (R&D) arm of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), the Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) focuses on providing the tools, technologies, and knowledge products the nation’s Homeland Security Enterprise needs today and tomorrow. Securing the Homeland with Science and Technology. We're improving the ability to screen for threats by: Detecting 1.25 million additional threats each year at airports (ScreenADAPT) Evaluating 160 explosive detection canine teams' performance (REDDI). We help combat Cyberattacks through: Strengthening Security of 6 million mobile apps with automated app (Kryptowire) Transitioning 18 technologies to help secure the nation's infrastructure market (TTP). S&T in Mobilizing Innovation by: Approving 966 safety act applications (Safety Act) Awarding $285 Million to Small Businesses (SBIR) Crowdsourcing 5 challenges for new homeland security solutions (Public-Private Partnerships) S&T in Mobilizing Innovation by: Approving 966 safety act applications (Safety Act) Awarding $285 Million to Small Businesses (SBIR) Crowdsourcing 5 challenges for new homeland security solutions (Public-Private Partnerships) When natural disasters strike, our technology is: Inflating in 12 minutes and holding back floodwaters in tunnels for 21 days (Tunnel Plug) Detecting heartbeats in up to 30 ft. of rubble (FINDER) Helping responders rescue 950 people during hurricane Harvey (ATAK) Verifying identities/familial relationships within 90 minutes (Rapid DNA) S&T supports First Responders across the nation by: Providing free virtual training on active shooters (Edge) Making available over 18,000 protective garments (Wildland Firefighters gear) Saving Approx. $3 million in equipment replacement costs (RIC-M) Helping save 475 victims of child sex trafficking (Chexia).That means S&T constantly works to bridge industry and end-user communities around the nation. S&T’s R&D focus areas cover DHS’s core mission areas and use our network of industry, national laboratory and other partners seek solutions for capability gaps and define topics for future research. Established by Congress in 2003, S&T strives to deliver effective and innovative insight, methods and solutions for the critical needs of the Homeland Security Enterprise.

Across all DHS mission areas, S&T helps integrate innovative technology into everyday use. S&T works directly with operators in the field to understand their unique needs and challenges. From there, S&T partners with U.S. and international government, industry and academia to create and test solutions that help the nation’s homeland security officials prevent, respond to and recover from all hazards and threats. Our goal is to provide real world solutions in a realistic timeframe.

Resources

Our News Room contains a variety of news releases and snapshots (technology features) highlighting specific milestones and accomplishments.S&T also has a variety of videos highlighting many of our projects and programs. Finally, visit our Business Opportunities page to learn how to work with us.

S&T’s Focus Areas

S&T supports DHS by creating the technologies and solutions needed to strengthen the Homeland Security Enterprise. Working with innovators in federal, state, local, tribal and territorial agencies; private industry; and academia, S&T helps identify, develop or adapt R&D efforts to address strategic needs. The driving force behind all of these efforts is an understanding of the role technology can play in helping the nation’s homeland security officials stay ahead of evolving threats.

We understand the ever-changing threat environment, and our relationships with the men and women who combat those threats every day make the organization an effective catalyst for improving the security and resilience of our nation.

  • OUP campus building image.

    Centers of Excellence and Academia

    We partner with a host of academic, national laboratory and research organizations across the nation to address specific homeland security topics and threats.

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    Chemical and Biological Defense

    DHS S&T partners with authorities across the nation to address chemical and biological threat prevention needs through technological innovation and future-focused research.

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    Critical Infrastructure and Resilience

    We coordinate with public and private sector partners to help strengthen the security and resilience of the nation’s critical infrastructure through technical innovation.

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    Cybersecurity

    DHS S&T supports the full spectrum of cybersecurity research and development.

  • Computerized image of a person wearing an explosive protection body suit.

    Explosives Detection and Aviation Screening

    Being at the forefront of explosive detection and mitigation research and development helps us create new approaches to help protect American citizens and infrastructure.

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    First Responders

    We work closely with first responders across jurisdictions and disciplines to improve their safety and effectiveness.

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    Unmanned Aerial Systems

    DHS S&T is tackling unmanned aerial systems challenges by researching ways to protect against threats and ways to make them more usable for the Homeland Security Enterprise

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