"NSF supports a broad range of basic research in geosciences; engineering; and social, behavioral, and economic sciences relevant to the understanding of the causes and impacts of earthquakes. NSF supports research into the causes and dynamics of earthquakes, plate tectonics, and crustal deformation as well as research on the seismic performance of geotechnical, structural, nonstructural, and infrastructure lifeline systems. NSF also supports research on such social, behavioral, and economic phenomena as risk perception, mitigation decision-making, incentive systems related to risk and mitigation, and factors that can promote community resilience. NSF supports advanced earthquake engineering research experimental facilities and cyberinfrastructure. NSF provides support for the education of new scientists and engineers, the integration of research and education, and outreach to professionals and the public". (NEHRP, Strategic Plan for the NEHRP Fiscal Years 2008-2012, April 2008 Draft, p. 4)