NIST Labs & Major Programs

The Center for Nanoscale Science and Technology (CNST) supports the U.S. nanotechnology enterprise from discovery to production by providing industry, academia, NIST, and other government agencies with access to world-class nanoscale measurement and fabrication methods and technology.

The Communications Technology Laboratory (CTL) promotes the development and deployment of advanced communications technologies, through the conduct of leading edge R&D on both the metrology and understanding of physical phenomena, materials capabilities, complex systems relevant to advanced communications.

The Engineering Laboratory promotes U.S. innovation and industrial competitiveness in areas of critical national priority by anticipating and meeting the measurement science and standards needs for technology-intensive manufacturing, construction, and cyber-physical systems, including the Smart Grid Program Office in ways that enhance economic prosperity and improve the quality of life.

The Information Technology Laboratory develops and disseminates standards, measurements, and testing for interoperability, security, usability, and reliability of information systems, including cybersecurity standards and guidelines for Federal agencies and U.S. industry, supporting these and measurement science at NIST through fundamental and applied research in computer science, mathematics and statistics.

MML serves as the national reference laboratory for measurements in the chemical, biological and material sciences. Activities range from fundamental and applied research to the development and dissemination of certified reference materials and data to assure the quality of measurement results.

PML is a world leader in the science of measurement. We set the definitive U.S. standards for nearly every kind of measurement employed in commerce and research, provide NIST-traceable calibrations, and disseminate standards and best practices throughout the nation.

The Office of Advanced Manufacturing is staffed by representatives from federal agencies with manufacturing-related missions as well as fellows from manufacturing companies and universities. The office operates in partnership with the Department of Defense, the Department of Energy, NASA, the National Science Foundation, the Department of Education and the Department of Agriculture.

The Baldrige Program oversees the nation's only Presidential award for performance excellence while offering criteria, assessments, tools, training and a community for those dedicated to helping organizations improve.

The Hollings Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) works with small and mid-sized U.S. manufacturers to help them create and retain jobs, increase profits, and save time and money.

The Special Programs Office fosters communication and collaboration between NIST and external communities focused on critical national needs, including forensics, the Greenhouse Gas Measurements Program, and the National Security Standards Program.