Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences
Size Standard: 1,000 employees
NAICS code 541715 covers Research and Development in the Physical, Engineering, and Life Sciences (except nanotechnology and biotechnology), representing a major category for government-funded R&D. This industry includes establishments primarily engaged in conducting research in physical sciences, engineering, and life sciences, including chemistry, physics, engineering, and biology.
The federal government is the largest funder of R&D in the United States, investing over $170 billion annually. This includes basic research, applied research, and development across virtually every scientific discipline. Major research agencies like NIH, NSF, DOE, DoD, and NASA award billions in R&D contracts.
Contractors under NAICS 541715 provide services including basic research, applied research, prototype development, testing and evaluation, and technology development. This code covers a broad range of scientific and engineering R&D activities from fundamental science to practical applications.
The employee-based size standard of 1,000 employees reflects the scale of some R&D organizations, while still allowing small businesses to compete. Small businesses, particularly through SBIR/STTR programs, have significant opportunities in government R&D.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH)
- Department of Defense (DoD)
- Department of Energy (DOE)
- National Science Foundation (NSF)
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA)
- Basic Research in Physical Sciences
- Applied Engineering Research
- Life Sciences Research
- Prototype Development
- Testing and Evaluation
These certifications can help you compete for set-aside contracts under NAICS 541715:
What activities fall under NAICS code 541715?
NAICS 541715 covers R&D in physical sciences, engineering, and life sciences, including chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering research. It excludes nanotechnology and biotechnology, which have separate codes.
What is the size standard for NAICS 541715?
The SBA size standard for NAICS 541715 is 1,000 employees, recognizing the scale of R&D organizations. This employee-based standard differs from the revenue-based standards used for consulting.
How can small businesses compete for NAICS 541715 contracts?
Small businesses can compete through SBIR/STTR programs specifically designed for small business R&D, small business set-asides, and teaming arrangements with larger R&D organizations.
Which agencies spend most on NAICS 541715 contracts?
NIH, DoD, DOE, NSF, and NASA are the largest R&D funders. Defense-related R&D through DARPA and military labs represents a significant portion of federal R&D spending.
What credentials matter for NAICS 541715 contracts?
Advanced degrees, publications, prior research experience, laboratory capabilities, and qualified principal investigators are critical. Security clearances are required for classified defense research.
Businesses below this threshold in average annual receipts qualify as small businesses for set-aside contracts.
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