The purview of the NOAA Science Council is the conduct and management of R&D (both conducted and funded), as defined in NOAA Administrative Order (NAO) 216-115A. The mission of the NOAA Science Council is to engage on all matters of science, research, and development across the NOAA portfolio. The Science Council oversees NOAA’s R&D portfolio and may choose to provide a higher degree of oversight on specific topics. Within the development, the Science Council oversees the process of research to development. The decision to address topics outside of this scope may be made by the Chair of the Council.

The Council Terms of Reference define the mission, responsibilities, authorities, and processes of the NOAA Science Council.