R&D:  NRL is a working capital organization.  Scientists and engineers are funded entirely on research grants and contracts.  NRL performs R&D of use to the Navy, the Department of Defense and the Nation.  NRL has invented and commercialized sensors of all types.  The Center for Bio/Molecular Science and Engineering (CBMSE) has invented at least 12 optical biosensors that have been produced commercially and is well known for taking an original concept through prototype development and testing at the point of use to a product.  An entire company has evolved around the NRL lab-based resequencing technology for multiplexed pathogen identification (FDA approval pending).  CBMSE staff routinely collaborate with other investigators in universities, industry and other federal laboratories. The expertise is cross-disciplinary, and the culture is entrepreneurial.