The Federation of American Scientists (FAS) was founded in 1945 by scientists who worked on the Manhattan Project to develop the first atomic bombs. These scientists recognized that science had become central to many key public policy questions, and that they had an ethical obligation to bring their knowledge and experience to bear on critical national decisions.

FAS addresses a broad spectrum of issues, including four main program areas: Strategic Security, Biosecurity, Educational Technologies, and the Earth Systems Program.

With 84 Nobel Laureates on its Board of Sponsors, FAS provides timely, nonpartisan technical analysis on complex global issues that hinge on security, science, and technology. Priding itself on agility and an ability to bring together people from many disciplines and organizations, FAS often addresses critical policy topics that are not well covered by other organizations.