Join the National Science Foundation (NSF), Office of the Director (OD), in Alexandria, VA to support projects of the Renewing NSF effort! 

Renewing NSF supports the transformation of NSF into an even more agile organization capable of responding to the evolving STEM research landscape, so that NSF can enable the Nation's continued global leadership in scientific research and education. This effort promotes change and reform activities across the NSF enterprise to enhance achievement of NSF's mission that embody values of: a culture of continuous learning; appreciation for the value and contributions of each staff member; timeliness and intentionality in responding to changes; and, strategic decision making with coordination and centralization where appropriate.

What will I be doing?

NSF is continually looking for new and improved ways to support the nation's STEM enterprise and engage leaders across the agency to ensure these innovations encompass a variety of viewpoints and stakeholder perspectives. As a fellow with the NSF OD, you will support analysis for development and assessment of reform and enterprise innovation pilots that enhance NSF's ability to promote the progress of science. Research and analysis will focus on the technical, policy, and programmatic impacts of different approaches, in order to streamline and simplify processes and practices at NSF, all while meeting internal and external stakeholder requirements. Activities may include:

• Collect data and conduct analysis of quantitative and qualitative sources
• Conduct background research
• Collaborate on communications and reporting of results
• Other analysis support

Why should I apply?

As a fellow in the NSF Office of the Director, you will gain a deepened understanding of professional scientific career pathways and the research funding landscape. With guidance and support from your mentor, plus NSF leaders and staff members, you will learn about the high-level strategies for supporting the national STEM enterprise. You will perform research activities that enhance your knowledge of science policy and application of analytical techniques to interdisciplinary organizational opportunities. You will also have opportunities to network with peers and practice communicating on technical topics with experts from different scientific and science policy domains.

Where will I be located?

Alexandria, VA (Washington, D.C. area)

In response to the evolving situation related to the COVID-19 pandemic, NSF may modify their operation schedule and access to facilities to ensure the health and safety of their entire workforce while maintaining operational effectiveness. Hence, the appointment location is subject to change contingent on NSF guidelines and may result in virtual placement.

Participant Benefits

As a participant with NSF OD, you will receive an annual stipend starting at $55,000, based on your academic level and experience.

Participants may also be eligible to receive

• Health insurance allowance,
• Housing allowance,
• Reimbursement for travel expenses, and
• Travel/training allowance for professional development and travel to professional meetings, such as conferences.

Duration

Fellowships are for one year and may be extended based upon project needs and funding availability for up to 5 years.

Administrative note: You will not enter into an employee/employer relationship with ORISE, ORAU, DOE, NSF, or any other office or agency. Instead, fellows will be affiliated with ORISE for the administration of the appointment through the ORISE appointment letter and Terms of Appointment. 

Opportunities with NSF OD are open to students and recent graduates

To qualify for this opportunity you must,

• Be 18 years of age or older at time of application.
• Be currently pursuing or have received a Bachelor’s degree, Master's degree, or Doctoral degree from an accredited college or university. Degrees received must be received within 24 months prior to May 2022.
• Be a U.S. citizen.

Preferred skills include: 

• Adaptable and results-focused.
• Demonstrates analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Practical experience with data and statistical analysis methods and software.
• Knowledge of or experience with NSF programs and merit review process.
• Experience communicating and collaborating with stakeholders of diverse professional and scientific backgrounds.
• Knowledge of the research funding landscape and policies for science.

A list of eligible disciplines can be found at the end of this opportunity. 

A complete application consists of:

• Complete Zintellect profile
• Essay Questions - The application includes questions specific to the opportunity.
• Current Resume/CV
• Academic Records: The applicant must submit records for the most recent degree or degree in progress. Unofficial transcripts or copies of academic records provided by the applicant or by academic advisors from internal institutional systems may be submitted.
• One (1) Recommendation: Applicants are required to provide contact information for at least one recommendation in order to submit the application. You are encouraged to request a recommendation from a professional who can speak to your abilities and potential for success as well as your scientific capabilities and personal characteristics. Recommendation requests must be sent through the Zintellect application system. Recommenders will be asked to complete a recommendation in Zintellect. Recommendations submitted via email will not be accepted.  Recommendation must be submitted before a fellowship offer is made.

All documents must be submitted via Zintellect. All application components must be received in the system in order to be considered.

If you have questions, please send an email to SciEdPrograms@orau.org. 

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• Citizenship: U.S. Citizen Only
• Degree: Bachelor's Degree, Master's Degree, or Doctoral Degree received within the last 24 months or currently pursuing.
• Discipline(s):
  • Business (6 )
  • Chemistry and Materials Sciences (1 )
  • Communications and Graphics Design (2 )
  • Computer, Information, and Data Sciences (4 )
  • Earth and Geosciences (1 )
  • Engineering (1 )
  • Environmental and Marine Sciences (1 )
  • Life Health and Medical Sciences (1 )
  • Mathematics and Statistics (3 )
  • Other Non-Science & Engineering (2 )
  • Physics (1 )
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences (5 )
• Age: Must be 18 years of age
• Veteran Status: Veterans Preference, degree received within the last 60 month(s).