NSF and USDA Interagency Research Act

H.R. 3707, the NSF and USDA Interagency Research Act, would direct the Secretary of Agriculture and the Director of the National Science Foundation (NSF) to jointly plan and conduct cross-cutting research and development activities aimed at advancing shared mission priorities of both agencies. The bill envisions formal interagency coordination through memoranda of understanding or similar agreements, including a merit-review process where appropriate, and encourages collaboration with federal agencies, colleges, universities, nonprofits, and other eligible organizations. It covers a broad suite of focus areas—from fundamental plant, animal, and microbial biology to food security, rural revitalization, and modern technologies like AI, sensors, cyber-physical systems, and digital agriculture—with an emphasis on translational (practical, application-ready) outcomes. Key components include promoting data sharing and collaboration across institutions, supporting research infrastructure (including broadband), and developing education and workforce initiatives. The bill would authorize grant programs to establish a Center for Agricultural Research, Education, and Workforce Development, and it would facilitate public-private partnerships to sustain these activities after interagency agreements end. A report to Congress is due within two years, detailing coordination, capabilities, achievements, and future opportunities. The act also references maintaining research security in line with CHIPS and Science Act provisions.