Merit review for a new era at NSF
Research in service of the American people
"As NSB stated in Vision 2030, we must make sure that everything NSF funds — from basic research to technology translation to talent development — benefits the American people," says NSB Chair Victor McCrary. "We see this report as a key part of how a next generation NSF is relevant in its priorities, operations, and structure for today's science and technology (S&T) challenges while staying firmly grounded in supporting the most meritorious research for tomorrow."
"The agency must also strive for greater accountability of public funds, constructing award portfolios that show American taxpayers what they are getting for their investment," says Wanda Ward, who chaired NSB's Commission on Merit Review.
Over the last three years, NSB investigated how to update NSF's Merit Review to reflect major changes to the S&T landscape over recent decades.
"Our recommendations seek to strengthen NSF's agility and its ability to leverage the perspectives and expertise of people in all sectors, including industry, academia, government and states," says Commission Vice Chair Julia Phillips.
The Board recommends that NSF:
- Boost participation and invite expert reviews from a wider range of industry, research institutions, venture capital, and regions of the country.
- Emphasize that NSF-funded research must deliver societal benefits, including research that advances the nation's economic competitiveness and national security.
- Build NSF's award portfolio at the agency level for greater nimbleness and strategic alignment with national priorities, both current and emerging.
NSF previously announced operational changes to its Merit Review to streamline, clarify, and harmonize agency funding strategies to achieve top scientific and national priorities, similar to those made by the National Institutes of Health. In the coming year, the Board will continue working with NSF leaders to implement NSB recommendations for Merit Review policy changes, such as encouraging verification of previously reported results and pursuing more bold research with high reward potential.
"We can't succeed in a new era with yesterday's playbook," says McCrary. "For our nation to win the race for the future, NSF must develop transformative partnerships with the private sector, states and communities. Together, we can blaze a trail to the next frontiers of science, usher in a Golden Age of American Innovation, and deliver on the promise of science and technology for the benefit of all Americans."
Read the Merit Review for a Changing Landscape report.
Get more information about the National Science Board.
Media contact: Nadine Lymn, National Science Board, (703) 292-2490, nlymn@nsf.gov