The function of the Office of Science (formerly, the Division of Science, Research and Technology) is to help ensure that the department’s decision-making is based upon the best possible scientific and technical information. The role of this office is to provide the department with, and access to, expertise and information that supports its technical and policy needs. In addition, the office will perform research to meet the information and problem-solving needs, identify and understand emerging issues that require the department’s attention and to advocate/integrate the multi-disciplinary perspective into the department’s identification, analysis and resolution of environmental issues.