Discover a unique opportunity to shape the future of science, engineering and education through the U.S. National Science Foundation Rotator Program.
The U.S. National Science Foundation invites accomplished scientists, engineers and educators to serve as STEM professionals through the Intergovernmental Personnel Act Mobility Program. Rotators play a critical role in advancing the nation's research enterprise by evaluating proposals, recommending funding decisions, identifying emerging areas of innovation, and supporting groundbreaking interdisciplinary initiatives.
Serving as a rotator offers a front-row seat to the full landscape of U.S. and global research. Participants collaborate with leading experts across disciplines, broaden their professional networks, and gain valuable leadership experience while helping guide the direction of scientific discovery and education.
The program also provides a unique opportunity to bring new perspectives, insights and strategic expertise back to your home institution. Most assignments range from one to two years, with opportunities for extended service based on organizational needs and mutual interest.
Join NSF and make a lasting impact on the future of research, innovation and discovery.
Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) assignments
Incoming IPA assignments are funded through grants to the institution as reimbursement for salary and benefits.
Rotator Frequently Asked Questions
Program Directors oversee the National Science Foundation's "gold standard" merit review process and may help define new funding opportunities. Key responsibilities include interacting with potential principal investigators, forming and facilitating merit review panels, and recommending funding decisions. Program Directors have the opportunity to be involved with a broad spectrum of national scientific programs and initiatives that ultimately increase intellectual awareness and enhance professional growth.
NSF cannot offer direct service in locating housing for its rotators. NSF does provide housing information and local county information, available on the Local Area Information page.
NSF has an Independent Research/Development (IR/D) program that permits individuals with approved IR/D plans to maintain involvement with their professional research. IR/D plans might include time, travel expenses, and research costs, and must be approved in advance (typically annually) by the supervisor and the human resources and legal staffs.
You can only submit a proposal for NSF funds if it is a continuation or extension of previously funded NSF work. Certain other restrictions may apply.
You can apply for funding from other federal agencies if those agencies permit; however, NSF does place some restrictions on such funding. If you wish to pursue such funding, contact your NSF Conflict of Interest Official for further guidance.
You can apply the very next day as the principal investigator, as long as you assign a substitute negotiator for one year.