Science and technology are key components to national security. On Monday, March 29, 2010, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano revealed support for S&T when she met with National Academy of Engineering President Charles Vest and National Academy of Sciences President Ralph Cicerone.

The three discussed ways to enhance collaboration between the Department of Homeland Security and the science and technology communities. Collaboration will in turn lead to more innovative means of protecting the country from threats.

Secretary Napolitano stated, “Cutting-edge science and technology are powerful tools in preventing, countering and responding to evolving threats.”

“DHS is committed to working closely with our colleagues across the science and technology community to leverage private, non-profit and government expertise to help prevent and deter terrorism and recover from natural disasters,” she continued.

In the past, collaboration between DHS and the science and technology communities has led to inventions and innovations such as biothreat detection and advanced imaging and explosives trace detection technologies for U.S. airports.