The National Council for Scientific Research (CNRS) is a public institution established in 1962 and assigned with the task of formulating national science and technology policy, initiating, guiding, supporting and conducting scientific research programmes and activities in Lebanon. It advises the Government on all science and technology issues. The CNRS conducts research through its specialised centres and supports research projects having an impact on the socio-economic development of the country. The CNRS is a public autonomous institution reporting directly to the President of the Council of Ministers. It is administered by a Board of Administration and a General Secretariat.