An Assessment of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Communications Technology Laboratory

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Communications Technology Laboratory (CTL) pioneers metrology and standards research across a broad range of communication technologies, from improving radios for first responders to positioning the United States as a global leader in quantum sensing. Work at CTL has advanced public safety, launched entirely new industries, and led to groundbreaking developments in science based on meeting fundamental measurement needs.

This 2025 assessment evaluates CTL's technical programs, staffing, facilities, and effectiveness at meetings its mission. The report finds that CTL staff are among the most highly regarded in the field and produce top quality research. To maintain CTL's world-leading status, additional resources are needed to address critical infrastructure and facility issues, which include frequent power outages that can affect highly sensitive instrumentation.