The National Science Board
BACKGROUND
The National Science Foundation Act of 1950, which created NSF, states that "The Foundation shall
consist of a National Science Board ... and a Director." Jointly the Board and the Director pursue
the goals and functions of NSF, including the duty to "recommend and encourage the pursuit of
national policies for the promotion of research and education in science and engineering."
In addition, The National Science Board has two important roles. It provides oversight for, and
establishes the policies of, NSF within the framework of applicable national policies set forth by
the President and the Congress. In this capacity, the Board identifies issues that are critical to
NSF’s future, approves NSF’s strategic budget directions, approves annual budget submissions to the
Office of Management and Budget, approves new programs and major awards, analyzes NSF’s budget to
ensure progress and consistency along the strategic direction set for NSF, and ensures balance
between initiatives and core programs. The second role of the Board is to serve as an independent
body of advisors to both the President and Congress on broad national policy issues related to
science and engineering research and education.
COMPOSITION The NSB is made up of 24 Members appointed by the president and confirmed by
the Senate. The NSF director is an ex officio Member. Members serve six-year
terms; one-third of the board is appointed every two years. NSB Members are
drawn from industry and universities, and represent a variety of science
and engineering disciplines and geographic areas. They are selected for their
preeminence in research, education or public service.
ACTIONS
The NSB meets about six times a year (usually five at the NSF headquarters
in Arlington, Va., and one in another part of the country). It reviews and
approves major NSF awards and new programs. It also initiates and conducts
studies and reports on a broad range of policy topics -- on its own initiative
or as the president or Congress requests -- including the biennial Science
and Engineering Indicators. The NSB also publishes occasional policy papers
or statements on issues of importance to U.S. science and engineering.
HONORS The NSB sponsors two national honorary awards:
- Vannevar Bush Award - established by NSB in 1980,awarded to senior scientists for public
service in science and technology;
- NSB Public Service Award - established by NSB in 1996, presented to one or more individuals,
or to a company, corporation or organization, in recognition of their contributions to increasing
public understanding of science or engineering.
MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL SCIENCE BOARD
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