Delivering National Scientific & Technological Advantage: Darpa and the American Approach

We were delighted to welcome William Schneider Jr, former Chairman of the US Defense Science Board and a leading authority on strategic innovation and tech R&D, to speak at Policy Exchange on “Delivering National Scientific & Technological Advantage: The American Approach”.

The question of technological competitiveness has become more acute than at any point since the 1950s. An R&D race is underway across the globe, with countries seeking dominance in areas like AI, biotech, quantum, hypersonics or space. Much of this innovation is now happening in the private sector. The role of government and public policy remains crucial, but how can it keep pace with the latest standards of disruptive tech development coming from the commercial world?

At a time of renewed British ambition, particularly in key areas like space, William will draw on his decades-long experience at the heart of America’s strategic technology planning. The lecture will focus on the lessons that Britain can draw from the US as it looks to develop its own D/ARPA-type agency focused on disruptive innovation. He will consider what principles should drive UK national strategy, project prioritisation and delivery across the broad field of science and technology, and what kind of management culture is required for these purposes in Government.

You can read the full text of the address here.