The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) launched a new approach to its research and development (R&D) mission, with a new organizational structure to improve its ability to rapidly transition technology capabilities into operations and quickly respond to emerging threats.

Another critical element of the new S&T structure is to more rapidly transfer capabilities to where they are most needed, working closely with partners and industry to deliver solutions. S&T has reorganized into four primary offices that will work collaboratively:

The Office of Mission & Capability Support will conduct the majority of program management in support of borders, immigration, maritime, first responders, detection capabilities, and physical and cyber security.

The Office of Engineering & Science will include operations and requirements analysis, systems engineering, standards, technology scouting, test and evaluation, and transition.

The Office of Innovation & Collaboration will focus on industry and international partnerships, and include such efforts as the Silicon Valley Innovation Program, federally funded research and development centers, university programs, and collaboration with national labs.

The Office of Enterprise Services will include all of S&T’s support functions such as administration, communications, finance and budget, and the chief information office. —DHS S&T