Subcommittee Examines Ways to Improve Cybersecurity R&D

The Research and Science Education Subcommittee has held hearings to review cybersecurity research and development (R&D) and ways to secure cyberspace. On September 23 , the Subcommittee passed the Cybersecurity Research and Development Amendments Act of 2009.

The Cybersecurity Research and Development Amendments Act of 2009, sponsored by Subcommittee Chairman Daniel Lipinski, requires federal agencies to develop a strategic plan for cybersecurity R&D, including the specific role each agency would play and the level of funding needed to achieve these research objectives. The bill will also direct the National Science Foundation (NSF) to support research on social and behavioral aspects of cybersecurity. In addition, it addresses cybersecurity workforce needs by providing scholarships and fellowships to students to pursue advanced degrees in cybersecurity-related fields.

“Cyber threats are constantly evolving and cybersecurity R&D must evolve in concert through a combination of near-term fixes and long-term projects that build a more secure foundation,” stated Subcommittee Chairman Lipinski. “The Cybersecurity R&D Amendments Act will ensure an overall vision and an implementation plan for the federal cybersecurity R&D portfolio and will train the next generation of cybersecurity professionals.”

Read more about the Committee’s work on cybersecurity >>

 

Subcommittee Jurisdiction

Committee Rule 11(a)(3)

Legislative jurisdiction and general oversight and investigative authority on all matters relating to science policy and science education including:

1. the Office of Science and Technology Policy;
2. all scientific research, and scientific and engineering resources (including human resources), math, science and engineering education;
3. intergovernmental mechanisms for research, development, and demonstration and cross-cutting programs;
4. international scientific cooperation;
5. National Science Foundation, including earthquake programs;
6. university research policy, including infrastructure and overhead;
7. university research partnerships, including those with industry;
8. science scholarships;
9. computing, communications, and information technology;
10. research and development relating to health, biomedical, and nutritional programs;
11. to the extent appropriate, agricultural, geological, biological and life sciences research; and
12. materials research, development, and demonstration and policy.