About us

Our Mission

The Potomac Institute for Policy Studies is an independent, nonpartisan, not-for-profit, science and technology (S&T) policy research institute. The Institute identifies and leads discussions on key S&T and national security issues facing our society, providing an academic forum for the study of related policy issues. Based on data and evidence, we develop meaningful policy recommendations and ensure their implementation at the intersection of business and government.

 

Our Challenge

Advances in fields such as artificial intelligence, big data analytics, bioengineering, robotics, and nanotechnology are revolutionizing our way of life, from manufacturing to medicine. Disruptive technologies present unique challenges and, all too often, policy ideation and implementation lag behind technology adoption. The Potomac Institute seeks to (1) identify key emerging technologies or scientific fields with disruptive potential, (2) anticipate and understand the likely societal-level impacts of these technologies, and (3) recommend meaningful policy options to the government. The Institute is keenly aware that implementation is the most difficult component of policy work. As a result, we do not merely conduct a world class study and provide a report. We roll up our sleeves as a think and “do” tank!

 

Our History

Founded in 1994, the Potomac Institute carries on the legacy of the U.S. Congress’s former Office of Technology Assessment (OTA), providing nonpartisan, data-driven analysis and policy recommendations on a range of S&T topics. Over the decades, the Potomac Institute has become the “go-to” place for independent, objective, and informed S&T policy and analysis. The Institute has conducted studies and provided high-level strategic support to the U.S. Congress, White House, Department of Defense, National Science Foundation, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Energy, Intelligence Community, and a host of others.

 

Our Philosophy

The Potomac Institute fiercely maintains objectivity and credibility by remaining independent of any federal or state agency, and owing no special allegiance to any political party or private entity. The Institute also bases its policy recommendations purely on the best available data and science, divorcing any political or popular sentiment from our analysis.

 

Areas of Expertise

Potomac Institute provides high-level, science and technology policy support to the federal government in the following areas:

• Strategic planning
• Program development
• Technology assessment
• Technology forecasting
• Research studies and analysis
• Communications and outreach
• S&T and market trends