Office of Scientific Intelligence

The Office of Scientific Intelligence (OSI) is an elite branch of the Central Intelligence Agency dedicated to scientific and technological research advances both in the laboratory and in the field. OSI personnel are tasked with a variety of missions and responsibilities, including development of new technologies, investigation of new and foreign technologies, interception of rogue technologies, as well as assisting domestic and international law enforcement agencies in the pursuit and interdiction of rogue scientists.

History

On December 31, 1948, the CIA formed the Office of Scientific Intelligence (OSI), by merging the Scientific Branch in the Office of Reports and Estimates with the Nuclear Energy Group of the Office of Special Operations.

In 1962, the CIA formed the Deputy Directorate of Research (DDR), headed by Herbert Scoville. Under it was the newly formed Office of Special Activities, along with the Office of ELINT and the Office of Research and Development, which were quickly integrated into the DDR. However, the OSI remained part of the Directorate of Operations.

In 1963, Scoville resigned and was replaced by Albert Wheelon in the renamed Deputy Directorate of Science and Technology. The OSI was transferred to the Deputy Directorate of Science and Technology, along with the Office of Computer Services.

In 1964, Presidential science adviser Theodore Welles was named director of the OSI.

Foreign Technology Division

Known informally as "the Shop," this division of scientists and engineers investigates, tests, and otherwise deals with technology delivered from the field by search and acquisition (SA) teams. In addition to research staff, the Shop also employs armed agents who typically work undercover.

Team Zero

See OSI Team Zero for more detail.

OSI Team Zero is a deep-cover SA team tasked with operations that include the suppression of new and foreign technologies and the pursuit and interdiction of teratoids, cryptids, and xenomorphs.

The Black Box

See also OSI and Magic

The Black Box is the colloquial name of a rumored team of esoteric specialists who study and contemplate the deepest mysteries of the cosmos. Officially, the group does not exist, and none of its members are known. If such a group did exist, it would be so secret that any information known about the group would likely be false.

Key Personnel

Director: Theodore Welles

Deputy Director of Operations: Geoffrey Abrams