The National Academies of Sciences - Division on Earth and Life Studies

The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine are private, nonprofit institutions that provide expert advice on some of the most pressing challenges facing the nation and the world. Our work helps shape sound policies, inform public opinion, and advance the pursuit of science, engineering, and medicine.

The Division on Earth & Life Studies (DELS) is one of six subject area divisions that enlist the nation's top experts to respond to requests for advice from the Federal Government, states, and some foundations.

DELS is responsible for a vast array of topics, ranging from the molecular level to the global level. The common thread linking the units is the broad topic of science and the environment, but the division also examines issues outside that area. DELS has 13 program units (boards) that undertake a wide-range of activities, including convening experts to share their individual views in meetings and workshops. However, it is the Academy’s reports that represent the most authoritative source of scientific and technical information for the nation. The division produces about 60-70 of these reports each year.