AbstractAs an independent research agency with its own governing council, the NRC was encouraged to develop a strong Canadian R and D capability and high quality scientific expertise available to government, industry and the private citizen.By the mid-sixties NRC had developed a competent group of laboratories and a multidisciplinary research capability. Through NRC leadership and support, university laboratories had developed strength in most scientific disciplines to the point where it was no longer necessary for Canadian students to seek high quality scientific training outside Canada.