Scientific research, technological development, and innovation in the United States are increasingly driven by the private sector, while government-funded public sector initiatives are becoming less dominant.

VietNamNet spoke with Dr. Alondra Nelson, a member of the U.S. National Science Board, about how the United States fosters artificial intelligence (AI) and the implications for Vietnam’s scientific and technological growth. Dr. Nelson was recognized by Time magazine as one of the 100 most influential figures in AI.

Integrating science and technology into national policies

When asked about the U.S.’s long-standing leadership in science and technology, Dr. Nelson emphasized that these fields are deeply intertwined with nearly all aspects of national policy.

“There was a time when technology policy was considered separate from other policies. However, in recent years, that has changed. Science and technology are now recognized as fundamental to policies in economic growth, finance, agriculture, healthcare, and more.

The U.S. government plays a crucial role in fostering public understanding of and readiness for technological advancements,” Dr. Nelson explained.

One of her key contributions was leading the development of the Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights, a White House initiative outlining principles for the safe and responsible use of AI across healthcare, employment, and national security. This framework was released in October 2022, just one month before OpenAI introduced ChatGPT.

The bipartisan focus on AI has been consistent across multiple administrations. President Barack Obama’s administration laid the groundwork for AI research, the Trump administration continued AI-related initiatives, and President Joe Biden has further expanded AI development policies.

Key scientific and technological priorities

Looking ahead, Dr. Nelson highlighted emerging fields that will shape the next decade of U.S. science and technology.

“AI remains a top priority, with applications ranging from national security to healthcare and education. However, AI must be developed with responsibility and ethical considerations at its core.

We are also investing in quantum science and quantum information technology. This includes using quantum physics to enhance medical imaging and improve GPS accuracy.

Additionally, synthetic biology and bioengineering are growing fields. Beyond agriculture, these sciences can help create safer, bio-derived materials for various industries,” she said.

Energy research is another critical area. During her tenure at the White House, Dr. Nelson helped launch a 10-year strategy for nuclear fusion energy, aiming to develop clean and limitless power sources.

The growing role of the private sector

Dr. Nelson also discussed the shifting balance between public and private sector research.

“The U.S. National Science Board oversees the National Science Foundation (NSF), which funds a significant portion of scientific research. However, data from our Science and Engineering Indicators report shows that over the past two decades, private sector investment in research and development has outpaced government-funded initiatives.

Governments should not compete with businesses in areas where private companies excel. Instead, they should focus on research that lacks direct commercial incentives—such as developing treatments for rare diseases that pharmaceutical companies may not find profitable,” she explained.

One of the most significant public investments in recent years was the CHIPS and Science Act, which allocates $50 billion to boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing.

“I was standing right behind the President and Vice President when the CHIPS Act was signed. This legislation is comprehensive, providing funding for research, workforce development, and partnerships between government and industry to strengthen the semiconductor supply chain in the U.S.,” she recalled.

Ensuring ethical AI governance

With rapid technological advancement, developing nations like Vietnam may struggle to craft regulations that protect citizens while fostering innovation. Dr. Nelson shared insights on building a robust legal framework.

“AI is advancing quickly, but not so fast that we can’t address human rights, social benefits, and ethical concerns.

I serve on the UN’s High-Level Advisory Body on AI, which recently published the Governing AI for Humanity report. This document provides a framework that countries can adopt to regulate AI effectively.

Encouragingly, the UN General Assembly has unanimously passed two AI-related resolutions, showing a global consensus on ethical AI governance.

Vietnam and other nations can build upon these international frameworks to ensure AI is developed fairly, safely, and inclusively,” she suggested.

Strengthening Vietnam’s scientific and technological capacity

Vietnam has a rapidly growing scientific and technological community but still faces infrastructure challenges. Dr. Nelson advised looking beyond traditional research facilities.

“Both Vietnam and the U.S. face the need for more research infrastructure. However, modern science increasingly relies on data and computational power. Instead of focusing solely on physical labs, Vietnam can invest in large-scale data centers and shared datasets.

Vietnam does not need to replicate every aspect of AI supply chains. Instead, it should identify its unique strengths and leverage them.

Singapore, for example, has released two national AI strategies, recognizing its expertise in computer science and knowledge industries while choosing not to develop full-scale AI models.

Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Minister of Technology is implementing a ‘digital diaspora’ strategy, engaging Nigerian scientists and researchers worldwide to contribute to their home country’s AI initiatives,” she said.

Dr. Nelson believes that Vietnam’s strong natural resources and human capital provide significant opportunities to position itself as a leader in specialized scientific and technological fields.

U.S.-Vietnam cooperation in AI and beyond

Asked about opportunities for U.S.-Vietnam collaboration, Dr. Nelson pointed to AI’s applications in healthcare.

“The U.S. has a unique responsibility to ensure that AI tools are developed and deployed safely. Many of the world’s leading AI companies are based in the U.S., and our government must lead in establishing ethical AI practices.

One initiative we proposed at the UN is the creation of an International Scientific Advisory Council, which would ensure that all nations have access to critical AI developments. The UN also publishes periodic AI reports to keep member states informed about advancements and challenges in the field.

These collaborative efforts provide a strong foundation for Vietnam to engage with global AI governance and innovation,” she said.

Vietnam’s strategic vision for science and technology

Dr. Nelson acknowledged Vietnam’s top leadership’s commitment to advancing science and technology, noting that not all nations have such clear aspirations.

“Vietnam’s leadership has a bold vision for science and technology development. However, no country can do everything. It’s essential to identify what Vietnam does best and focus on excelling in those areas.

Vietnam’s natural advantages and growing expertise could position it ahead of many other nations in AI and technological innovation,” she concluded.

About Dr. Alondra Nelson

Dr. Alondra Nelson is the Harold F. Linder Professor at the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, New Jersey, a leading independent research institution. Her work explores the intersection of science, technology, policy, and society.

In 2024, President Joe Biden appointed her to the U.S. National Science Board, which advises Congress and the President on science policy. She was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential figures in AI in 2023 and serves on the UN’s High-Level Advisory Body on AI.

Previously, she was Deputy Assistant to the President and Acting Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP).

Lan Anh