About Our Research

About ORD

The Office of Research and Development (ORD) is the scientific research arm of EPA. Its leading-edge research informs Agency decisions and supports the emerging needs of EPA stakeholders, including the Agency’s state, tribal, and community partners. Learn more about ORD's role, management, facilities, and locations. 

Strategic Research Planning

Research in ORD provides solutions needed to meet today’s complex environmental and human health challenges. Research is organized around six highly integrated and transdisciplinary national research programs that are closely aligned with the Agency's strategic goals and cross-Agency strategies.

Each program is guided by a Strategic Research Action Plan (StRAP) developed by EPA with input from its many internal and external partners and stakeholders. StRAPs serve as planning guides to address the needs of both internal and external Agency partners and stakeholders. Read the Strategic Research Action Plans for Fiscal Years 2023-2026.

In addition to the STRAps, ORD has also developed its own Strategic Plan to guide its actions for carrying out its mission to ensure that the Agency and our partners have the scientific knowledge, data, and tools needed to protect people and the planet from the most complex and challenging environmental issues of our time. Read the ORD Strategic Plan. 

National Program Manager for Regional Laboratories 

As the National Program Manager for Regional Laboratories, ORD  is responsible for the strategic direction, budgetary alignment and overall performance of the laboratories associated with each of EPA’s ten Regional offices. 

Other Labs and Science Advisory Organizations

In addition to ORD's laboratories and research programs, EPA has program office and regional labs, as well as scientific advisory organizations.