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NAICS Code· 541715

Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)

This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in conducting research and experimental development (except nanotechnology and biotechnology research and experimental development) in the physical, engineering, and life sciences, such as agriculture, electronics, environmental, biology, botany, computers, chemistry, food, fisheries, forests, geology, health, mathematics, medicine, oceanography, pharmacy, physics, veterinary, and other allied subjects. Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in--Show more

NAICS 541715 – Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) encompasses scientific and technical R&D activities focused on advancing knowledge in physics, mechanical engineering, materials science, environmental science, chemistry, and applied life sciences. This sector supports government missions through experimental design, prototype development, data analysis, modeling and simulation, and laboratory testing of novel technologies.

1.2K
Active Contracts
$16.9B
Total Obligations (12mo)
13.5K
Awarded Contracts (12mo)
6.3K
Contractors Awarded (12mo)
-55.0%
YoY Growth

Industry Spending Overview

Federal obligations, top companies and agencies, and related industry codes for NAICS 541715.

AI Industry Description

NAICS 541715 – Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) encompasses scientific and technical R&D activities focused on advancing knowledge in physics, mechanical engineering, materials science, environmental science, chemistry...

NAICS 541715 – Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology) encompasses scientific and technical R&D activities focused on advancing knowledge in physics, mechanical engineering, materials science, environmental science, chemistry, and applied life sciences. This sector supports government missions through experimental design, prototype development, data analysis, modeling and simulation, and laboratory testing of novel technologies. Contractors in this space deliver high-value technical services to solve complex operational challenges, often under classified or sensitive program constraints. The work is critical to advancing defense systems, space exploration, environmental monitoring, and public health infrastructure, positioning this NAICS as a cornerstone of federal innovation strategy. Top contractors in this sector include a mix of established primes like Deloitte Consulting LLP and AECOM Technical Services, alongside specialized small businesses such as CFD Research Corporation, Apothym Technologies Group, and Barn Owl Tech, Inc. These firms bring niche expertise in computational modeling, sensor development, systems engineering, and experimental validation, often competing on technical rigor and agility rather than scale. The competitive landscape favors firms with DOE, DOD, or NASA laboratory partnerships and proven track records in peer-reviewed scientific deliverables. Primary buyers include the Department of Defense, particularly Army Futures Command and the Missile Defense Agency, along with NASA, the Department of Energy, and the Department of Homeland Security. These agencies fund R&D to enhance sensor fidelity, energy systems, autonomous platforms, chemical detection, and environmental resilience. Demand is driven by modernization initiatives, next-generation instrumentation, and the need for rapid prototyping in high-stakes operational environments. The market is characterized by high technical barriers to entry and strong reliance on proprietary methodologies and certified laboratory capabilities. Opportunities are concentrated in areas requiring interdisciplinary expertise—such as advanced materials testing, fluid dynamics simulation, and non-biotech life science applications—and favor contractors with cleared personnel, ISO/AS9100 compliance, and experience in federal grant and cost-reimbursement contracting models.

Key Performance Metrics

Total Obligations

L12M
$0

Active Contracts

0

Awarded Contracts

L12M
0

Contractors Awarded

L12M
0

Year-over-Year Growth

-55.0%vs previous 12 months

Top Contractors & Agencies

Top Agencies

1
Department Of Defense8,282 awards
$7.1B
2
National Aeronautics And Space Administration778 awards
$1.1B
3
Department Of Health And Human Services215 awards
$790.6M
4
NASA Johnson Space Center3 awards
$716.5M
5
Department Of Defense (dod)1,256 awards
$608.7M

Related NAICS Codes

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NAICS 541715 FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

NAICS code 541715 covers Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology). This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in conducting research and experimental development (except nanotechnology and biotechnology research and experimental development) in the physical, engineering, and life sciences, such as agriculture, electronics, environmental, biology, botany, computers, chemistry, food, fisheries, forests, geology, health, mathematics, medicine, oceanography, pharmacy, physics, veterinary, and other allied subjects. Cross-References. Establishments primarily engaged in--

Recently Posted in Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except Nanotechnology and Biotechnology)

NAICS: 541715
New
Federal
Consolidated Operations, Management, Engineering and Test (COMET) Follow-On ContractThe COMET Follow-On Contract supports a broad range of engineering, ground system development, spacecraft processing, and launch, landing, and recovery operations critical to NASA’s Exploration Systems Development programs including Exploration Ground Systems, the Space Launch System, and the Orion Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle. It encompasses end-to-end capabilities for preparing and managing flight hardware at Kennedy Space Center, ensuring mission readiness for crewed and uncrewed deep space missions. The contract also extends its support to the International Space Station Program and the Launch Services Program, facilitating integrated operations across multiple high-priority NASA initiatives as well as commercial partnerships and collaborative ventures at the KSC facility. This contract is positioned as a forecast opportunity with a NAICS code of 541715, indicating its focus on research and development in the physical, engineering, and life sciences. Performance will occur at Kennedy Space Center, though the precise location is listed as TBD, reflecting the evolving nature of infrastructure planning. The Point of Contact for the opportunity is Nicholas Reinert, with Natalie Colvin serving as the Small Business Specialist, ensuring accessibility for diverse vendors. The contract is anticipated to be awarded following the posted forecast date of October 1, 2031, and will likely serve as a critical enabler for the next phase of U.S. space exploration activities involving sustainable lunar missions, deep space transit, and advanced ground infrastructure development.
Kennedy Space Center

POSTED

in about 5 years

DEADLINE

N/A
View Details
NAICS: 541715
New
Federal
FILMSS (Fully Integrated Lifecycle Mission Support Services) 3FILMSS 3 is a contract issued by NASA’s Ames Research Center to deliver comprehensive program, science, engineering, operations, and project management support across a broad spectrum of mission-critical initiatives. The contract encompasses biosciences flight development projects including mission implementation, instrument development, and technology advancement, as well as collaborative science programs such as astrobiology and virtual institutes. It also supports aeronautics research projects and various internal Ames offices, ensuring seamless integration of technical expertise and operational efficiency throughout the lifecycle of these efforts. Additionally, the contract provides specialized technical and professional services tailored to Ames Mission Support functions, enabling the center to advance its scientific and aeronautical objectives. The contract falls under NAICS code 541715 and is forecasted for release with a posted date of April 1, 2029. Primary point of contact for inquiries is Arlene D. Schwartz, with Robert E. Watts designated as the Small Business Specialist. Performance will be centered at Moffett Field, where the full scope of activities will be executed. Although the solicitation number and set-aside details are not specified, the contract is structured to facilitate robust support for NASA’s strategic priorities through integrated lifecycle services, with emphasis on collaboration, innovation, and mission readiness.
Ames Research Center

POSTED

in over 2 years

DEADLINE

N/A
View Details
NAICS: 541715
New
Federal
Aeronautics and Spaceflight Systems Engineering Support Services (ASSESS) IIThe Aeronautics and Spaceflight Systems Engineering Support Services II contract is designed to advance NASA’s mission by enabling cutting-edge research and technology development across aeronautics and spaceflight systems. It focuses on supporting scientific inquiry, engineering design, analysis, and development activities that push the boundaries of current capabilities, with particular emphasis on increasing the technology readiness level of emerging systems critical to future NASA missions. The scope includes the implementation of technology programs, test operations, systems analysis, conceptual design, and comprehensive program and project management support to ensure seamless integration and execution of complex aerospace initiatives. Work under this contract will be conducted primarily at NASA’s Ames Research Center in Moffett Field, with the primary focus on sustaining and enhancing the agency’s technical infrastructure and innovation pipeline. The contract supports a broad spectrum of technical disciplines essential to the development of next-generation aircraft and spacecraft, ensuring alignment with evolving mission objectives. Point of contact for inquiries is Mary E. Livingston, with Robert E. Watts serving as the Small Business Specialist, reflecting a commitment to broad participation. The contract falls under NAICS code 541715 and is forecasted for release in 2029, positioning it as a strategic vehicle for long-term R&D collaboration with industry and academic partners.
Ames Research Center

POSTED

in over 2 years

DEADLINE

N/A
View Details
NAICS: 541715
New
Federal
Marshall Engineering Technicians and Trades Support (METTS) IVThe METTS IV contract provides comprehensive engineering technician and trades support services to the Marshall Space Flight Center, specifically supporting the Engineering Directorate, Facilities Management Office, and various other programs and projects across the center. The contractor is responsible for delivering a broad range of technical services that span multiple disciplines and are critical to the successful execution of NASA’s mission-critical activities at Huntsville. This includes hands-on technical work, system maintenance, fabrication, testing, and other specialist trades, all performed in alignment with the detailed requirements outlined in the Performance Work Statement. The contractor must also ensure effective management and oversight to guarantee compliance with performance standards, schedule adherence, and quality control across all assigned tasks. All work is conducted at the Marshall Space Flight Center in Huntsville, and the contract is categorized under NAICS code 541715 for research and development in physical, engineering, and life sciences. Point of contact for program inquiries is Myron H. Tapscott, while Danielle R. Barnes serves as the Small Business Specialist, indicating an emphasis on small business participation. The forecasted posting date is October 1, 2027, signaling the anticipated timing for future solicitation activity.
Marshall Space Flight Center

POSTED

in about 1 year

DEADLINE

N/A
View Details
NAICS: 541715
New
Federal
Quantum Sensing and Enabling Tech ANTXThe U.S. Navy’s NIWC Atlantic is seeking to engage industry, academia, and government laboratories in support of a planned Advanced Naval Technology Experiment (ANTX) focused on quantum sensing and enabling technologies under solicitation number FY26-102. This special notice is intended to foster early collaboration and gather input on emerging capabilities aligned with the office’s strategic priorities, without requiring formal responses. Stakeholders are encouraged to share suggestions for refining the test plan, shaping prize challenges, and identifying potential participants for a multi-day experimental event to be held in North Charleston, South Carolina. The notice provides no binding obligation but serves as a forum for technical dialogue and innovation scouting. The opportunity is open for feedback until July 21, 2026, with all correspondence directed to the primary point of contact at quantumantx@us.navy.mil. The activity falls under NAICS code 541715, reflecting research and development in physical, engineering, and life sciences. The experiment aims to accelerate the transition of cutting-edge quantum sensing technologies into operational naval systems through collaborative experimentation. While no formal procurement or funding is guaranteed by this announcement, interested parties are invited to explore the technical details via the provided SAM.gov link to align their innovations with the Navy’s near-term experimental goals and to contribute to the design of a robust, real-world testing environment.
Niwc Atlantic

POSTED

1 day ago

DEADLINE

in 7 days
View Details
NAICS: 541715
Closed
Federal
ARMY OPEN SOLICITATION (AOS)The Army Open Solicitation (AOS) W9128Z-25-S-A002, issued by the U.S. Army Contracting Command – Aberdeen Proving Ground, is an open-ended solicitation designed to accelerate the acquisition of innovative commercial technologies and research solutions across all Army mission areas, with a focus on closing capability gaps and enhancing warfighter lethality. The solicitation remains active indefinitely until canceled and leverages a broad array of statutory and regulatory authorities—including FAR 6.102(d)(2), DFARS 235.016, 10 U.S.C. §§ 4021, 4022, 4023, 3458, and the Employee Stock Ownership Pilot Program—to enable flexible acquisition methods such as Commercial Solutions Opening and Other Transactions. Proposals are submitted through two primary pathways: Active Capability Gap (ACG) submissions and targeted Calls for Solutions, each governed by distinct processes outlined in Attachment 1, which details a three-phase evaluation structure including Solution Brief, Live Pitch, and full Solution Proposal phases. Revisions to the solicitation documents, including updates to Army Example Areas and ACG mailboxes, are regularly published as amendments, with the most recent being Amendment 11 as of March 2026, and all changes are highlighted in yellow for transparency. RFIs posted under the AOS are strictly for market research and do not obligate the Government to issue a follow-on solicitation. Proposals are evaluated based on a prioritized, non-LPTA trade-off process emphasizing Technical Merit above all other factors, followed by Viability, Feasibility and Desirability combined, then Schedule and Price, with price being the least decisive criterion. Offerors must submit unclassified, single PDF documents not exceeding 10 pages for technical content, with company information limited to two pages, submitted exclusively via email by the specified deadline. Mandatory representations include UEI and CAGE codes, small business or socioeconomic status certifications, and disclosures if the offering entity is a Nontraditional Defense Contractor or Nonprofit Research Institution. Data security requirements mandate that all government data be stored exclusively within U.S. jurisdiction, with strict access logging and compliance with ITAR, EAR, and NISPOM. Awards are contingent on congressional appropriations, with payments processed via WAWF, and contractors must be registered in SAM with an active UEI. Contract performance is centered on deliverables associated with Army Example Areas such as Intelligence, Electronic
W6QK Acc-Apg Cont Ct Software Sector

POSTED

1 day ago

CLOSED

about 1 year ago
View Details
NAICS: 541715
New
Federal
Design, Development, Testing, Deployment, and Maintenance of Engineering Solutions for United States Navy (USN) ASW/USW Tactical Planning and EmploymentThis notice is a sources sought announcement by the Naval Air Systems Command for market research purposes, seeking to identify qualified vendors capable of supporting the development, testing, deployment, and maintenance of engineering solutions for the ASPECT software system, which enables tactical planning and environmental adaptation for anti-submarine and undersea warfare missions. The effort focuses on enhancing an existing multi-static ASW mission planning tool used for pre-flight and in-flight operational decision-making, with requirements centered on optimizing performance, integrating emerging technologies, maintaining software through certified lifecycle practices, ensuring information assurance compliance, and supporting commonality across air, surface, and submarine platforms. The acquisition is tied to NAICS code 541715 and carries a Conflict of Interest provision under FAR Subpart 9.5, with eligibility strictly limited to companies registered in SAM and capable of immediate performance upon award projected for FY 2027. No funds are available for response preparation, and submissions are strictly voluntary with no obligation for the government to award a contract. Interested vendors must submit a capability statement not exceeding ten pages, detailing their company profile, relevant experience in similar defense software efforts, current staffing and management structure, quality certifications, and a clear plan for immediate performance. The submission must directly address the required capabilities including acoustic range prediction, ray-trace analysis, sensor data integration, and support for airborne, buoy, and submarine systems. The incumbent is L3 Harris Technologies Inc., and responses must be delivered electronically in PDF format through email to the designated point of contact by the stated deadline. All submissions are for informational purposes only and will not result in payment or contractual commitment, serving solely to inform the government’s future acquisition strategy.
Naval Air Systems Command

POSTED

1 day ago

DEADLINE

in 14 days
View Details

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