The U.S. National Science Foundation Directorate for Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences (SBE) is dedicated to understanding human behavior and improving people's quality of life. It accomplishes this mission by supporting fundamental research on a broad range of topics — from neurons to nations, from evolution to economics and from ancient ruins to artificial intelligence.
SBE-supported scientists develop and employ rigorous methods to discover fundamental principles of human behavior at levels ranging from cells to society and across space and time. The directorate is also home to the National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES), where statisticians analyze surveys to better understand the science and engineering workforce, education, and research and development landscape in the U.S.
SBE research and NCSES surveys reveal patterns at the individual, group, organizational and societal levels that can be applied to promote the progress of science and advance national health, prosperity, and welfare.
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What we support
Fundamental social, behavioral, and economic science research
Advances the study of human behavior and social organizations from birth to old age.
National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
Collects and reports data on the science and engineering workforce, U.S. competitiveness in science and technology and the progress of education in these fields.