National Science Foundation: Profiles of Scientists and Engineers: Exercise Scientist

A 16-part video series from the partnership of NBC and the National Science Foundation, on the "physics, biology, chemistry, and materials engineering behind the Olympic Winter Games." Exciting and engaging videos give new meaning to...

The National Science Foundation provides us with a comprehensive report on disasters; understanding them, how to prepare for them, responding to them, and the latest news. Learn about the risks involved and how to minimize the effects.

What a thrilling job for an engineer: designing advanced athletic competition suits! Which materials can most reduce friction and drag, and yet still be flexible enough to move with the athlete's body? With attention focused on Shani...

Synthetic scaffolding can be used to regenerate biological tissue, such as muscle, tendons, and ligaments. When perfected, this biotechnological feat will help many injured athletes recover more quickly. Dr.Cato Laurencin explains the...

A robotics engineer explains his work developing exoskeletons to enable people with paralysis to walk again. [5:22]

The American bobsled team, scientists, and a bobsled designer explain how they hope to win a gold medal at the Vancouver Winter Olympics in 2010. [5:05]

Cross-country skiers are among the fittest athletes, and must press the limits of their endurance in order to win at the Olympics. Scientists discuss the biochemistry behind their endurance levels. [5:06]

Winter Olympic athletes and scientists discuss the science and technology behind the clothing the athletes wear in competition. [5:12]

A mechanical engineer explains the science that goes into the design of the safety helmets used in the Summer Olympics. [5:35]

Protective gear is critical to the safety of Olympic athletes. Scientists explain how safety helmets are designed to absorb the impact of a collision. [5:36]