Webinar – Inadequate Investment: America, China and the Future of Innovation

Please note: This virtual event is co-hosted by the American Academy of Arts & Sciences (AAAS) and the Baker Institute. Please register to participate via the AAAS Zoom account. A link and instructions for logging into the discussion will be sent via email two days prior to the event. For questions, contact Meg Di Maggio, AAAS Events Coordinator, at 617-576-5083 or events@amacad.org.

China recently surpassed the United States in research and development (R&D) investment, a significant development that warrants our attention and warns of our future. The United States' lagging R&D investment is exacerbated by current strains on the research system, including the Covid-19 pandemic, restrictions on foreign researchers that limit the talent pipeline, and proposed cuts to federal investment in basic and applied research. To fall behind can have grave consequences for our country’s economy, job creation, standard of living and national security.

"The Perils of Complacency: America at a Tipping Point in Science & Engineering" is a new report from the American Academy of Arts & Sciences and Rice University's Baker Institute for Public Policy that assesses progress and setbacks in the past five years, since an earlier report — "Restoring the Foundation: The Vital Role of Research in Preserving the American Dream."

This webinar featured a discussion of the new report, including concerns about America falling behind and policies that could help ensure the United States secures its strong position of global leadership in discovery and innovation.