Laboratory Directed Research and Development

Securing the future of our nation through cutting-edge science and technology

Representing work done by Lawrence Livermore, Los Alamos, Nevada National Security Site, and Sandia

The Laboratory Directed Research and Development (LDRD) program was authorized by Congress in 1991 to fund leading-edge research and development central to the U.S. Department of Energy national laboratories’ core missions.

With oversight from the National Nuclear Security Administration, the LDRD program at the National Nuclear Security Administration, Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Los Alamos National Laboratory, Nevada National Security Sites, and Sandia National Security Sites:

• maintains the scientific and technical vitality of the laboratories;
• enhances the laboratories’ ability to address future DOE/NNSA missions;
• fosters creativity and stimulate exploration of forefront science and technology;
• serves as a proving ground for new concepts in research and development; and
• supports high-risk, potentially high-value research and development.

The heart of the LDRD program is high-risk, high-reward research that creates innovative technical solutions for some of our nation’s most difficult challenges.