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Overview of the Directorate for Engineering

NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
4201 WILSON BOULEVARD
ARLINGTON, VIRGINIA 22230
The National Science Foundation
Directorate for Engineering
The National Science Foundation (NSF) is an independent agency of the United States Government. Its vision is to enable the nation's future through discovery, learning and innovation. In pursuit of this vision, NSF invests in (1) DISCOVERY by supporting research that will advance the frontiers of knowledge and establish the nation as a leader in transformational science; (2) LEARNING to cultivate a world-class, broadly inclusive science and engineering workforce and scientifically literate citizenry; (3) RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE by building the nation’s research capacity with critical investments in advanced instruments, tools and facilities; and (4) STEWARDSHIP by cultivating a capable and responsive organization that promotes excellence in science and engineering research and education. All of these goals work together in concert. The Foundation seeks to realize these goals using four core values: vision, dedication to excellence, broad inclusiveness, and accountability to the research community and the taxpayer.
The Directorate for Engineering (ENG) is one of seven NSF directorates. The focus of the Directorate for Engineering is to strengthen the capability of engineering (its knowledge bases and systems, its institutions, and its human and physical resources) to strengthen the national capacity to perform and innovate. Increased innovation contributes to our national prosperity, security, and welfare. The Directorate’s goals and strategies mirror those of the Foundation. The Directorate includes the Divisions of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental and Transport Systems; Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation; Electrical, Communications and Cyber Systems; Engineering Education and Centers; Industrial Innovation and Partnerships; and the Office of Emerging Frontiers in Research and Innovation. The Directorate staff of approximately 140 employees administers a budget of approximately $637 million annually.
The Assistant Director for Engineering (AD/ENG) serves as a key member of NSF's senior management and policy team and provides leadership and direction to the Engineering Directorate programs and initiatives. The incumbent is responsible for planning and implementing programs, priorities, and policy within the framework of statutory and National Science Board authority. NSF seeks a candidate with outstanding leadership abilities; a deep sense of scholarship; a grasp of the issues facing the engineering community in the areas of education and research; proficiency in the administration of large-scale facilities and centers; and a commitment to the goals and strategies of the National Science Foundation.
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