CHAPTER 16 —NATIONAL SCIENCE FOUNDATION
§1861. Establishment; composition
There is established in the executive branch of the Government an independent agency to be known as the National Science Foundation (hereinafter referred to as the "Foundation"). The Foundation shall consist of a National Science Board (hereinafter referred to as the "Board") and a Director.
(May 10, 1950, ch. 171, §2,
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Short Title of 1976 Amendment
Short Title
Act May 10, 1950, ch. 171, §1,
Transfer of Functions
Office of Science and Technology, including offices of Director and Deputy Director, provided for by sections 1 and 2 of Reorg. Plan No. 2 of 1962, abolished and all functions vested by law in Office of Science and Technology or Director or Deputy Director of Office of Science and Technology transferred to Director of National Science Foundation by sections 2 and 3(a)(5) of Reorg. Plan No. 1 of 1973, eff. July 1, 1973, set out in the Appendix to Title 5, Government Organization and Employees.
Continuation of Existing Offices, Procedures, and Organization
Amendments by
REORGANIZATION PLAN NO. 2 OF 1962
Eff. June 8, 1962, 27 F.R. 5419,
Prepared by the President and transmitted to the Senate and the House of Representatives in Congress assembled, March 29, 1962, pursuant to the provisions of the Reorganization Act of 1949,
CERTAIN SCIENCE AGENCIES AND FUNCTIONS
Part I—Office of Science and Technology
Sec. 1. [Repealed.
Sec. 2. [Repealed.
Sec. 3. [Repealed.
Sec. 4. [Repealed.
Part II—National Science Foundation
Section 21. Executive Committee
(a) There is hereby established the Executive Committee of the National Science Board, hereafter in this Part referred to as the Executive Committee, which shall be composed of five voting members. Four of the members shall be elected as hereinafter provided. The Director provided for in section 22 of this reorganization plan, ex officio, shall be the fifth member and the chairman of the Executive Committee.
(b) At its annual meeting held in 1964 and at each of its succeeding annual meetings the National Science Board, hereafter in this Part referred to as the Board, shall elect two of its members as members of the Executive Committee, and the Executive Committee members so elected shall hold office for two years from the date of their election. Any person who has been a member of the Executive Committee (established by this reorganization plan) for six consecutive years shall thereafter be ineligible for service as a member thereof during the two-year period following the expiration of such sixth year. For the purposes of this subsection, the period between any two consecutive annual meetings of the Board shall be deemed to be one year.
(c) At its first meeting held after the effective date of this section the Board shall elect four of its members as members of the Executive Committee. As designated by the Board, two of the Executive Committee members so elected shall hold office as such members until the date of the annual meeting of the Board held in 1964 and the other two members so elected shall hold such office until the annual meeting of the Board held in 1965.
(d) Any person elected as a member of the Executive Committee to fill a vacancy occurring prior to the expiration of the term for which his predecessor was elected shall be elected for the remainder of such term.
(e) The functions conferred upon the Executive Committee now existing under the provisions of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 [
Sec. 22. Director
(a) There is hereby established in the National Science Foundation a new office with the title of Director of the National Science Foundation. The Director of the National Science Foundation, hereafter in this Part referred to as the Director, shall be appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate. Before any person is appointed as Director the President shall afford the Board an opportunity to make recommendations to him with respect to such appointment. The Director shall serve for a term of six years unless sooner removed by the President. The Director shall not engage in any business, vocation or employment other than that of serving as such Director, nor shall he, except with the approval of the Board, hold any office in, or act in any capacity for, any organization, agency, or institution with which the Foundation makes any contract or other arrangement under the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 [
(b) Except to the extent inconsistent with the provisions of section 23(b)(2) of this reorganization plan, all functions of the office of Director of the National Science Foundation abolished by the provisions of 23(a)(2) hereof are hereby transferred to the office of Director established by the provisions of subsection (a) of this section.
(c) The Director, ex officio, shall be an additional member of the Board and, except in respect of compensation and tenure, shall be coordinate with other members of the Board. He shall be a voting member of the Board and shall be eligible for election by the Board as chairman or vice chairman of the Board. [As amended
Sec. 23. Abolitions
(a) The following agencies, now existing under the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 [
(1) The Executive Committee of the National Science Board (section 6 of Act;
(2) The office of Director of the National Science Foundation (sections 2 and 5 of Act;
(b) There are also hereby abolished:
(1) The functions conferred upon the National Science Board by that part of section 6(a) of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 (
(2) The functions of the Director of the National Science Foundation provided for in sections 4(a) and 5(a) of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 (
(3) So much of the functions conferred upon divisional committees by the provisions of section 8(d) of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 (
(c) The provisions of sections 23(a)(1) and 23(b)(1) hereof shall become effective on the date of the first meeting of the Board held after the effective date of the other provisions of this reorganization plan.
Part III. Transitional Provisions
Section 31. Incidental Transfers
(a) So much of the personnel, property, records, and unexpended balances of appropriations, allocations, and other funds employed, held, used, available, or to be made available, in connection with the functions transferred by the provisions of section 3 of this reorganization plan as the Director of the Bureau of the Budget shall determine shall be transferred to the Office of Science and Technology at such time or times as the said Director shall direct.
(b) Such further measures and dispositions as the Director of the Bureau of the Budget shall deem to be necessary in order to effectuate the transfers provided for in subsection (a) of this section shall be carried out in such manner as he shall direct and by such agencies as he shall designate.
Sec. 32. Interim Officers
(a) The President may authorize any person who immediately prior to the effective date of Part I of the reorganization plan holds a position in the Executive Office of the President to act as Director of the Office of Science and Technology until the office of Director is for the first time filled pursuant to the provisions of this reorganization plan or by recess appointment, as the case may be.
(b) The President may authorize any person who immediately prior to the effective date of section 22 of this reorganization plan holds any office existing under the provisions of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 [
(c) The President may authorize any person who serves in an acting capacity under the foregoing provisions of this section to receive the compensation attached to the office in respect of which he so serves. Such compensation, if authorized, shall be in lieu of, but not in addition to, other compensation from the United States to which such person may be entitled.
[Amendments by
Message of the President
To the Congress of the United States:
I transmit herewith Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1962, prepared in accordance with the provisions of the Reorganization Act of 1949, as amended, and providing for certain reorganizations in the field of science and technology.
Part I of the reorganization plan establishes the Office of Science and Technology as a new unit within the Executive Office of the President; places at the head thereof a Director appointed by the President by and with the advice and consent of the Senate and makes provision for a Deputy Director similarly appointed; and transfers to the Director certain functions of the National Science Foundation under sections 3(a)(1) and 3(a)(6) of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950.
The new arrangements incorporated in part I of the reorganization plan will constitute an important development in executive branch organization for science and technology. Under those arrangements the President will have permanent staff resources capable of advising and assisting him on matters of national policy affected by or pertaining to science and technology. Considering the rapid growth and far-reaching scope of Federal activities in science and technology, it is imperative that the President have adequate staff support in developing policies and evaluating programs in order to assure that science and technology are used most effectively in the interests of national security and general welfare.
To this end it is contemplated that the Director will assist the President in discharging the responsibility of the President for the proper coordination of Federal science and technology functions. More particularly, it is expected that he will advise and assist the President as the President may request with respect to—
(1) Major policies, plans, and programs of science and technology of the various agencies of the Federal Government, giving appropriate emphasis to the relationship of science and technology to national security and foreign policy, and measures for furthering science and technology in the Nation.
(2) Assessment of selected scientific and technical developments and programs in relation to their impact on national policies.
(3) Review, integration, and coordination of major Federal activities in science and technology, giving due consideration to the effects of such activities on non-Federal resources and institutions.
(4) Assuring that good close relations exist with the Nation's scientific and engineering communities so as to further in every appropriate way their participation in strengthening science and technology in the United States and the free world.
(5) Such other matters consonant with law as may be assigned by the President to the Office.
The ever-growing significance and complexity of Federal programs in science and technology have in recent years necessitated the taking of several steps for improving the organizational arrangements of the executive branch in relation to science and technology:
(1) The National Science Foundation was established in 1950. The Foundation was created to meet a widely recognized need for an organization to develop and encourage a national policy for the promotion of basic research and education in the sciences, to support basic research, to evaluate research programs undertaken by Federal agencies, and to perform related functions.
(2) The Office of the Special Assistant to the President for Science and Technology was established in 1957. The Special Assistant serves as Chairman of both the President's Science Advisory Committee and the Federal Council for Science and Technology, mentioned below.
(3) At the same time, the Science Advisory Committee, composed of eminent non-Government scientists and engineers, and located within the Office of Defense Mobilization, was reconstituted in the White House Office as the President's Science Advisory Committee.
(4) The Federal Council for Science and Technology, composed of policy officials of the principal agencies engaged in scientific and technical activities, was established in 1959.
The National Science Foundation has proved to be an effective instrument for administering sizable programs in support of basic research and education in the sciences and has set an example for other agencies through the administration of its own programs. However, the Foundation, being at the same organizational level as other agencies, cannot satisfactorily coordinate Federal science policies or evaluate programs of other agencies. Science policies, transcending agency lines, need to be coordinated and shaped at the level of the Executive Office of the President drawing upon many resources both within and outside of Government. Similarly, staff efforts at that higher level are required for the evaluation of Government programs in science and technology.
Thus, the further steps contained in part I of the reorganization plan are now needed in order to meet most effectively new and expanding requirements brought about by the rapid and far-reaching growth of the Government's research and development programs. These requirements call for the further strengthening of science organization at the Presidential level and for the adjustment of the Foundation's role to reflect changed conditions. The Foundation will continue to originate policy proposals and recommendations concerning the support of basic research and education in the sciences, and the new Office will look to the Foundation to provide studies and information on which sound national policies in science and technology can be based.
Part I of the reorganization plan will permit some strengthening of the staff and consultant resources now available to the President in respect of scientific and technical factors affecting executive branch policies and will also facilitate communication with the Congress.
Part II of the reorganization plan provides for certain reorganizations within the National Science Foundation which will strengthen the capability of the Director of the Foundation to exert leadership and otherwise further the effectiveness of administration of the Foundation. Specifically:
(1) There is established a new office of Director of the National Science Foundation and that Director, ex officio, is made a member of the National Science Board on a basis coordinate with that of other Board members.
(2) There is substituted for the now-existing Executive Committee of the National Science Board a new Executive Committee composed of the Director of the National Science Foundation, ex officio, as a voting member and Chairman of the Committee, and of four other members elected by the National Science Board from among its appointive members.
(3) Committees advisory to each of the divisions of the Foundation will make their recommendations to the Director only rather than to both the Director and the National Science Board.
After investigation I have found and hereby declare that each reorganization included in Reorganization Plan No. 2 of 1962 is necessary to accomplish one or more of the purposes set forth in section 2(a) of the Reorganization Act of 1949, as amended.
I have found and hereby declare that it is necessary to include in the reorganization plan, by reason of reorganizations made thereby, provisions for the appointment and compensation of the Director and Deputy Director of the Office of Science and Technology and of the Director of the National Science Foundation. The rate of compensation fixed for each of these officers is that which I have found to prevail in respect of comparable officers in the executive branch of the Government.
The functions abolished by the provisions of section 23(b) of the reorganization plan are provided for in sections 4(a), 5(a), 6(a), 6(b), and 8(d) of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950.
The taking effect of the reorganizations included in the reorganization plan will provide sound organizational arrangements and will make possible more effective and efficient administration of Government programs in science and technology. It is, however, impracticable to itemize at this time the reductions in expenditures which it is probable will be brought about by such taking effect.
I recommend that the Congress allow the reorganization plan to become effective.
John F. Kennedy.
§1862. Functions
(a) Initiation and support of studies and programs; scholarships; current register of scientific and engineering personnel
The Foundation is authorized and directed—
(1) to initiate and support basic scientific research and programs to strengthen scientific research potential and science education programs at all levels in the mathematical, physical, medical, biological, social, and other sciences, and to initiate and support research fundamental to the engineering process and programs to strengthen engineering research potential and engineering education programs at all levels in the various fields of engineering, by making contracts or other arrangements (including grants, loans, and other forms of assistance) to support such scientific, engineering, and educational activities and to appraise the impact of research upon industrial development and upon the general welfare;
(2) to award, as provided in
(3) to foster the interchange of scientific and engineering information among scientists and engineers in the United States and foreign countries;
(4) to foster and support the development and use of computer and other scientific and engineering methods and technologies, primarily for research and education in the sciences and engineering;
(5) to evaluate the status and needs of the various sciences and fields of engineering as evidenced by programs, projects, and studies undertaken by agencies of the Federal Government, by individuals, and by public and private research groups, employing by grant or contract such consulting services as it may deem necessary for the purpose of such evaluations; and to take into consideration the results of such evaluations in correlating the research and educational programs undertaken or supported by the Foundation with programs, projects, and studies undertaken by agencies of the Federal Government, by individuals, and by public and private research groups;
(6) to provide a central clearinghouse for the collection, interpretation, and analysis of data on scientific and engineering resources and to provide a source of information for policy formulation by other agencies of the Federal Government;
(7) to initiate and maintain a program for the determination of the total amount of money for scientific and engineering research, including money allocated for the construction of the facilities wherein such research is conducted, received by each educational institution and appropriate nonprofit organization in the United States, by grant, contract, or other arrangement from agencies of the Federal Government, and to report annually thereon to the President and the Congress; and
(8) to take a leading role in fostering and supporting research and education activities to improve the security of networked information systems.
(b) Contracts, grants, loans, etc., for scientific and engineering activities; financing of programs
The Foundation is authorized to initiate and support specific scientific and engineering activities in connection with matters relating to international cooperation, national security, and the effects of scientific and engineering applications upon society by making contracts or other arrangements (including grants, loans, and other forms of assistance) for the conduct of such activities. When initiated or supported pursuant to requests made by any other Federal department or agency, including the Office of Technology Assessment, such activities shall be financed whenever feasible from funds transferred to the Foundation by the requesting official as provided in
(c) Scientific and engineering research programs at academic and other nonprofit institutions; applied scientific and engineering research programs by Presidential directive; employment of consulting services; coordination of activities
In addition to the authority contained in subsections (a) and (b), the Foundation is authorized to initiate and support scientific and engineering research, including applied research, at academic and other nonprofit institutions. When so directed by the President, the Foundation is further authorized to support, through other appropriate organizations, applied scientific research and engineering research relevant to national problems involving the public interest. In exercising the authority contained in this subsection, the Foundation may employ by grant or contract such consulting services as it deems necessary, and shall coordinate and correlate its activities with respect to any such problem with other agencies of the Federal Government undertaking similar programs in that field.
(d) Promotion of research and education in science and engineering
The Board and the Director shall recommend and encourage the pursuit of national policies for the promotion of research and education in science and engineering.
(e) Balancing of research and educational activities in the sciences and engineering
In exercising the authority and discharging the functions referred to in the foregoing subsections, it shall be an objective of the Foundation to strengthen research and education in the sciences and engineering, including independent research by individuals, throughout the United States, and to avoid undue concentration of such research and education.
(f) Annual report to the President and Congress
The Foundation shall render an annual report to the President for submission on or before the 15th day of April of each year to the Congress summarizing the activities of the Foundation and making such recommendations as it may deem appropriate. Such report shall include information as to the acquisition and disposition by the Foundation of any patents and patent rights.
(g) Support of access to computer networks
In carrying out subsection (a)(4), the Foundation is authorized to foster and support access by the research and education communities to computer networks which may be used substantially for purposes in addition to research and education in the sciences and engineering, if the additional uses will tend to increase the overall capabilities of the networks to support such research and education activities.
(May 10, 1950, ch. 171, §3,
Amendments
2002—Subsec. (a)(8).
1998—Subsec. (g).
1992—Subsec. (g).
1986—Subsec. (a)(6).
1985—Subsec. (a)(1).
Subsec. (a)(2).
Subsec. (a)(3).
Subsec. (a)(4).
Subsec. (a)(5).
Subsec. (a)(6).
Subsec. (a)(7).
Subsec. (b).
Subsec. (c).
Subsec. (d).
Subsec. (e).
1977—Subsec. (e).
1976—Subsec. (f).
1972—Subsec. (a)(1).
Subsec. (b).
1968—Subsec. (a)(1).
Subsec. (a)(2).
Subsec. (a)(3).
Subsec. (a)(4).
Subsec. (a)(5).
Subsec. (a)(6).
Subsec. (a)(7).
Subsec. (a)(8).
Subsec. (a)(9).
Subsec. (b).
Subsec. (c).
Subsec. (d).
Subsec. (e).
Subsec. (f).
1959—Subsec. (a)(2).
1958—Subsec. (a)(9).
Transfer of National Science Foundation Programs
For transfer of all programs relating to science education of the National Science Foundation or the Director thereof under this chapter, with certain exceptions, to the Secretary of Education, see
Management of the U.S. Antarctic Program
"(a)
"(1)
"(2)
"(A) Implementation by the Foundation of issues and recommendations identified by—
"(i) the Inspector General of the National Science Foundation in audit reports and memoranda on the United States Antarctic Program in the last 4 years;
"(ii) the U.S. Antarctic Program Blue Ribbon Panel report, More and Better Science in Antarctica through Increased Logistical Effectiveness, issued July 23, 2012; and
"(iii) the National Research Council report, Future Science Opportunities in Antarctica and the Southern Ocean, issued September 2011.
"(B) Efforts by the Foundation to track its progress in addressing the issues and recommendations under subparagraph (A).
"(C) Efforts by the Foundation to address other opportunities and challenges, including efforts on scientific research, coordination with other Federal agencies and international partners, logistics and transportation, health and safety of participants, oversight and financial management of awardees and contractors, and resources and policy challenges.
"(b)
[For definitions of terms used in section 112 of
NSF Study and Report on the "Digital Divide"
"(a)
"(b)
Improving United States Understanding of Science, Engineering, and Technology in East Asia
Status of Scientific Instrumentation; Current and Projected Needs for Scientific and Technological Instrumentation; Development of Indices, Correlates, or Other Suitable Measures or Indicators
Flood Hazard Mitigation Study
Authorized Use of Funds Under Science and Society Program
"(a) From the funds authorized under the program 'Science and Society', the National Science Foundation is authorized to provide support which is designed to—
"(1) improve public understanding of public policy issues involving science and technology;
"(2) facilitate the participation of qualified scientists and engineers and of undergraduate and graduate students in public activities aimed at the resolution of public policy issues having significant scientific and technical aspects; and
"(3) assist nonprofit, citizens, and bona fide public interest groups to acquire necessary scientific and technical expertise in order to improve their comprehension of scientific and technical aspects of public policy issues.
"(b) Awards made pursuant to this section shall, to the extent feasible, include support for—
"(1) qualified scientists and engineers to work on public policy issues with significant scientific and technical components in conjunction with units of State and local government, nonprofit organizations, or bona fide public interest groups;
"(2) internship programs for science and engineering undergraduate or graduate students to work on public policy issues with significant scientific and technical components in conjunction with units of State and local government, nonprofit organizations, or bona fide public interest groups as part of their academic training;
"(3) forums, conferences, and workshops on public policy issues with significant scientific and technical components;
"(4) training in the presentation of scientific and technical studies in a manner which (A) improves public understanding of the ways in which science and technology influence contemporary life, (B) improves public access to the results of scientific and technical research, (C) encourages and facilitates interaction between laypersons and scientists on public issues with important scientific and technological components, and (D) increases public knowledge and understanding of the ethical and value implications of scientific and technological developments;
"(5) new and existing programs using radio or television to increase public understanding of public policy issues with significant scientific and technical components; and
"(6) bona fide public interest groups to acquire necessary scientific and technical expertise relating to the scientific and technical aspects of public policy issues and to enable such groups to bring together in appropriate forums experts whose research has been directed to the resolution of such issues."
Establishment of "Science for Citizens Program" Conducted in Conjunction With "Public Understanding of Science Program"
"(a) The National Science Foundation is authorized and directed to conduct an experimental 'Science for Citizens Program' and an augmented Public Understanding of Science Program under which funds will be available for pilot projects to:
"(1) improve public understanding of science, engineering and technology and their impact on public policy issues;
"(2) facilitate the participation of experienced scientists and engineers as well as graduate and undergraduate students in helping the public understand science, engineering and technology and their impact on public policies; and
"(3) assist nationally recognized professional societies and groups serving important public purposes in conducting a limited number of forums, conferences, and workshops to increase public understanding of science and technology, and of their impact on public policy issues, after consideration of the following eligibility factors:
"(A) the extent to which the proposal of the society or group will contribute to the development of facts, issues, and arguments relevant to public policy issues having significant scientific and technical aspects, and
"(B) the ability of the society or group, using its own resources, to conduct such forums, conferences, and workshops.
"(b) One or more review panels shall be established for the purpose of evaluating applications for awards under this section. The membership of each review panel shall have balanced representation from the scientific and nonscientific communities and the public and private sectors.
"(c) No contract, grant or other arrangement shall be made under this Section without the prior approval of the National Science Board.
"(d) To assist the Congress in evaluating activities initiated pursuant to this Section, the Director of the National Science Foundation, in consultation with a review panel having a balanced representation from the scientific and nonscientific community and the public and private sectors, is directed to prepare a comprehensive analysis and assessment of such activities to be submitted to the House Committee on Science and Technology [now Committee on Science, Space, and Technology] and the Senate Committee on Labor and Public Welfare [now Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions], not later than October 31, 1977. An interim report is required no later than March 1, 1977."
Development of Program Plan for Continuing Education in Science and Engineering
Denial of Financial Assistance to Campus Disrupters
"(a) If an institution of higher education determines, after affording notice and opportunity for hearing to an individual attending, or employed by, such institution, that such individual has been convicted by any court of record of any crime which was committed after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 16, 1973] and which involved the use of (or assistance to others in the use of) force, disruption, or the seizure of property under control of any institution of higher education to prevent officials or students in such institution from engaging in their duties or pursuing their studies, and that such crime was of a serious nature and contributed to a substantial disruption of the administration of the institution with respect to which such crime was committed, then the institution which such individual attends, or is employed by, shall deny for a period of two years any further payment to, or for the direct benefit of, such individual under any of the programs specified in subsection (c). If an institution denies an individual assistance under the authority of the preceding sentence of this subsection, then any institution which such individual subsequently attends shall deny for the remainder of the two-year period any further payment to, or for the direct benefit of, such individual under any of the programs specified in subsection (c).
"(b) If an institution of higher education determines, after affording notice and opportunity for hearing to an individual attending, or employed by, such institution, that such individual has willfully refused to obey a lawful regulation or order of such institution after the date of enactment of this Act [Aug. 16, 1973], and that such refusal was of a serious nature and contributed to a substantial disruption of the administration of such institution, then such institution shall deny, for a period of two years, any further payment to, or for the direct benefit of, such individual under any of the programs specified in subsection (c).
"(c) The programs referred to in subsections (a) and (b) are as follows:
"(1) The programs authorized by the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 [this chapter]; and
"(2) The programs authorized under title IX of the National Defense Education Act of 1958 [
"(d)(1) Nothing in this Act [
"(2) Nothing in this section shall be construed as limiting or prejudicing the rights and prerogatives of any institution of higher education to institute and carry out an independent, disciplinary proceeding pursuant to existing authority, practice, and law.
"(3) Nothing in this section shall be construed to limit the freedom of any student to verbal expression of individual views or opinions."
Similar provisions were contained in the following National Science Foundation Authorization Acts:
Continuation of Authorization for Weather Modification Programs; Repeal
Continuation of Existing Offices, Procedures, and Organization of the National Science Foundation
Investigation of Need for Geophysical Institute in Territory of Hawaii
Act Aug. 1, 1956, ch. 865,
Ex. Ord. No. 10521. Administration of Scientific Research
Ex. Ord. No. 10521, Mar. 17, 1954, 19 F.R. 1499, as amended by Ex. Ord. No. 10807, §6(b), Mar. 13, 1959, 24 F.R. 1899, provided:
(a) the head of each such agency engaged in scientific research shall, to the extent practicable, encourage and facilitate the sharing with other Federal agencies of major equipment and facilities; and
(b) a Federal agency shall procure new major equipment or facilities for scientific research purposes only after taking suitable steps to ascertain that the need cannot be met adequately from existing inventories or facilities of its own or of other agencies; and
(c) the Interdepartmental Committee on Scientific Research and Development shall take necessary steps to ensure that each Federal agency engaged directly in scientific research is kept informed of selected major equipment and facilities which could serve the needs of more than one agency. Each Federal agency possessing such equipment and facilities shall maintain appropriate records to assist other agencies in arranging for their joint use or exchange.
Executive Order No. 10807
Ex. Ord. No. 10807, Mar. 13, 1959, 24 F.R. 1897, as amended Ex. Ord. No. 11381, Nov. 8, 1967, 32 F.R. 15629, which established the Federal Council for Science and Technology, provided for a chairman and membership, specified the functions of the Council, provided for assistance from other Federal agencies and the establishment of standing committees and panels, revoked Ex. Ord. No. 9912 of Dec. 24, 1947, entitled "Establishing the Interdepartmental Committee on Scientific Research and Development", and amended Ex. Ord. No. 10521, set out above, was omitted from the Code in view of
Abolition of Federal Council for Science and Technology
§1862a. Findings and purpose
(a) The Congress finds that—
(1) the fundamental research and related education program supported by the Federal Government and conducted by the Nation's universities and colleges are essential to our national security, and to our health, economic welfare, and general well-being;
(2) many national research and related education programs conducted by universities and colleges are now hindered by obsolete research buildings and equipment, and many institutions lack sufficient resources to repair, renovate, or replace their laboratories;
(3) the Nation's capacity to conduct high quality research and education programs and to maintain its competitive position at the forefront of modern science, engineering, and technology is threatened by this research capital deficit, which poses serious and adverse consequences to our future national security, health, welfare, and ability to compete in the international marketplace;
(4) a national effort to spur reinvestment in research facilities is needed, and national, State, and local policies and cooperative programs are required that will yield maximum return on the investment of scarce national resources and sustain a commitment to excellence in research and education; and
(5) the Foundation, as part of its responsibility for maintaining the vitality of the Nation's academic research, and in partnership with the States, industry, and universities and colleges, must assist in enhancing the historic linkages between Federal investment in academic research and training and investment in the research capital base by reinvesting in the capital facilities which modern research and education programs require.
(b) It is the purpose of
(
References in Text
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the Academic Research Facilities Modernization Act of 1988, and also as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1988, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Prior Provisions
A prior section 1862a,
§1862b. Establishment of Program
(a) Establishment; purpose
(1) To carry out
(2) Such awards shall, consistent with the functions of the Foundation set forth in
(A) promote the modernization of graduate academic science and engineering research laboratories and related facilities so as to facilitate and support research in the scientific and engineering disciplines;
(B) assist those academic institutions that historically have received relatively little Federal research and development funds to improve their academic science and engineering infrastructures and broaden and strengthen the Nation's science and engineering base; and
(C) promote the modernization of undergraduate academic science and engineering research laboratories and related facilities so as to facilitate and support research in the scientific and engineering disciplines.
(b) Improvement projects; maximum amounts
(1) The Program shall be carried out through projects which involve the repair, renovation, or, in exceptional cases, replacement of specific science and engineering facilities devoted primarily to research at eligible institutions, or consortia thereof, and for which funds are awarded in response to specific proposals submitted by such eligible institutions or consortia in accordance with procedures prescribed by the Director pursuant to
(2) Awards made under the Program shall not exceed $7,000,000 to any institution or consortium over any period of 5 years for the repair, renovation, or, in exceptional cases, replacement of academic research facilities.
(3) The Director shall, in making awards under the Program, consider the extent to which that institution or consortium has received funds for the repair, renovation, construction, or replacement of academic facilities from any other Federal funding source within the 5-year period immediately preceding the application. The Director shall give priority to institutions or consortia that have not received such funds in the preceding 5 years.
(4) The Director shall, in awarding funds under
(c) Criteria for award of funds
Criteria for the award of funds to any institution for a project under the Program shall include—
(1) the quality of the research and training to be carried out in the facility or facilities involved;
(2) the need for the proposed repair, renovation, or, in exceptional cases, replacement based on an analysis of the age and condition of existing research facilities and equipment;
(3) the congruence of the institution's research and training activities with the future research needs of the Nation and the research mission of the Foundation;
(4) the contribution that the project will make toward meeting national, regional, and institutional research and related training needs;
(5) in the case of an institution that historically has received relatively little Federal research and development funding, the contribution the proposed project will make to improving the institution's academic scientific and engineering infrastructure and broadening the Nation's science and engineering base; and
(6) the impact of the award on the overall geographic distribution of awards made under the Program, with the objective of avoiding undue concentration of awards.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the Academic Research Facilities Modernization Act of 1988, and also as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1988, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Prior Provisions
A prior section 1862b,
Major Research Instrumentation
§1862c. Procedures, guidelines, and planning activities
(a) Procedures
(1) The Director shall, consistent with the objectives of the Program and the criteria set forth in
(2) The procedures so prescribed shall contain such terms, conditions, and guidelines as may be necessary in the light of Program objectives, but shall in any event provide that—
(A) funds to carry out the Program will be awarded only on the basis of merit after a comprehensive review using established Foundation procedures;
(B) the membership of merit review panels that assess proposals will be broadly representative of eligible institutions, including research universities and predominantly undergraduate and minority institutions;
(C) the institution receiving an award shall provide at least 50 percent of the cost, in cash or in kind, fairly evaluated, of the repair, renovation, or replacement involved and shall provide this contribution from private or non-Federal public sources, except that the Director may accept a match of less than 50 percent, but at least 30 percent, for institutions which are not ranked among the top 100 of the institutions receiving Federal research and development funding, as documented in the latest annual report of the Foundation entitled "Federal Support to Universities, Colleges, and Selected Nonprofit Institutions"; and
(D) to the extent practicable, eligible institutions of a given type will compete against similar institutions for Program awards.
(b) Comprehensive planning activities
The Director shall conduct comprehensive planning activities, including surveys of research facility needs and other information-gathering activities, necessary to implement the Program and to develop the procedures called for under subsection (a) of this section.
(c) Guidelines
Prior to the issuance of the comprehensive plan required by subsection (d) of this section, and consistent with the Program criteria set forth in
(1) definitions for the terms "institutions of higher education", "private non-profit research organizations", "research museums", "consortia", "facilities", "facilities primarily devoted to research", "instrumentation", "equipment", "repair", "renovation", and "replacement";
(2) selection criteria to be used by the Foundation in evaluating proposals from institutions and consortia thereof, including criteria for evaluating scientific merit and for evaluating the age and condition of existing research facilities; and
(3) requirements for matching a Program award with contributions from non-Federal sources.
(d) Comprehensive plan
The Director, after gathering appropriate information and after considering comments on the proposed Program guidelines published in the Federal Register pursuant to subsection (c) of this section, shall develop a comprehensive plan for the Program that—
(1) defines the appropriate roles and responsibilities of the Federal Government, institutions of higher education, State governments, private foundations, and other appropriate organizations;
(2) states what procedures will be used to ensure that predominantly undergraduate institutions and colleges and universities that historically have received little Federal research and development funding will receive substantial percentages of the funds awarded under
(3) states the estimated percentage of Program funds available for each category of eligible institutions, including predominantly undergraduate institutions and colleges and universities that historically have received little Federal research and development funding as well as research universities; and
(4) evaluates and addresses, to the maximum extent possible, a variety of factors which include—
(A) the unique circumstances and research facilities needs of research universities, undergraduate institutions, and other institutions whose enrollment includes substantial percentages of minorities underrepresented in science and engineering research;
(B) innovative approaches in the management of the Program that address both short-term and long-term aspects of the renovation, repair, and replacement of academic research facilities;
(C) programmatic approaches that recognize and support excellence, strengthen scientific and engineering research potential and, to the maximum extent possible and consistent with the purposes of this Act, assure an equitable distribution of resources with respect to institutions and geographical areas; and
(D) any recommendations necessary to improve the Program and further meet the purposes of
(e) Report
The Director shall prepare and submit, not later than June 15, 1989, a report containing the comprehensive plan required by subsection (d) of this section to the Committee on Labor and Human Resources and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate and the Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of the House of Representatives.
(f) Final guidelines
Final guidelines shall be published in the Federal Register not later than 45 days after the submission of the report required under subsection (e).
(g) Amount available for this section
The Director shall, from amounts available to the Foundation under section 101(b) of this Act for fiscal year 1989, make available an amount, not to exceed $1,000,000, to carry out the provisions of this section. None of the funds authorized to be appropriated in section 101 of this Act may be used for grant or contract awards under the Program prior to completion and submission to Congress of the comprehensive plan required by subsection (d) of this section.
(h) Consultation with Secretary of Education and heads of other agencies
In conducting the activities under the Program, the Director shall consult with the Secretary of Education and the heads of other related agencies.
(
References in Text
This Act, referred to in subsecs. (d)(4)(C) and (g), is
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the Academic Research Facilities Modernization Act of 1988, and also as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1988, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Change of Name
Committee on Labor and Human Resources of Senate changed to Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of Senate by Senate Resolution No. 20, One Hundred Sixth Congress, Jan. 19, 1999.
§1862d. Set-aside for certain institutions
Of the amounts appropriated to the Foundation for the Program, as authorized under section 101 of this Act, in each fiscal year, at least 12 percent shall be reserved for historically Black colleges or universities defined as "part B institutions" by
(
References in Text
Section 101 of this Act, referred to in text, is section 101 of
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the Academic Research Facilities Modernization Act of 1988, and also as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1988, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
§1862e. Evaluations of research centers
In carrying out performance reviews of research centers by the Foundation, the Director shall take such action as may be necessary, consistent with the merit review process of the Foundation, to ensure that—
(1) members of review panels are free from any conflict of interest; and
(2) the conditions of each award to such centers have been fulfilled.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1988, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
§1862f. Research center consortia
In Foundation programs making grants to research centers, the Director shall encourage the formation of consortia that include research universities, two-year and four-year colleges, and the private sector.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1988, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
§1862g. Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research
(a) The Director shall operate a program to stimulate competitive research (known as the "Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research"), the purpose of which is to assist those States that—
(1) historically have received relatively little Federal research and development funding; and
(2) have demonstrated a commitment to develop their research bases and improve science and engineering research and education programs at their universities and colleges.
(b) A State which has received an initial award under such Program, whether or not the award was received before or after October 31, 1988, shall be eligible for up to 5 years of additional support under the Program if that State provides assurances of new matching funds and submits an acceptable new plan for using Program funds and matching funds to build the research capabilities of the State.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1988, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
2017—
Subsec. (a).
Subsec. (b).
Planning Grants
[For definitions of terms used in section 26 of
§1862h. Congressional statement of findings and declaration of purposes respecting scientific and technical education and training
(a) Findings
The Congress finds that—
(1) the position of the United States in the world economy faces great challenges from highly trained foreign competition;
(2) the workforce of the United States must be better prepared for the technologically advanced, competitive, global economy;
(3) the improvement of our work force's productivity and our international economic position depend upon the strengthening of our educational efforts in science, mathematics, and technology, especially at the associate-degree level;
(4) shortages of scientifically and technically trained workers in a wide variety of fields will best be addressed by collaboration among the Nation's associate-degree-granting colleges and private industry to produce skilled, advanced technicians; and
(5) the National Science Foundation's traditional role in developing model curricula, disseminating instructional materials, enhancing faculty development, and stimulating partnerships between educational institutions and industry, makes an enlarged role for the Foundation in scientific and technical education and training particularly appropriate.
(b) Purposes
It is the purpose of
(1) improve science and technical education at associate-degree-granting colleges;
(2) improve secondary school and postsecondary curricula in mathematics and science;
(3) improve the educational opportunities of postsecondary students by creating comprehensive articulation agreements and planning between 2-year and 4-year institutions; and
(4) promote outreach to secondary schools to improve mathematics and science instruction.
(
References in Text
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the Scientific and Advanced-Technology Act of 1992, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
§1862i. Scientific and technical education
(a) National advanced scientific and technical education program
The Director of the National Science Foundation (hereafter in
(1) the development of model instructional programs in advanced-technology fields and in core science and mathematics courses;
(2) the professional development of faculty and instructors, both full- and part-time, who provide instruction in science, mathematics, and advanced-technology fields;
(3) the establishment of innovative partnership arrangements that—
(A) involve associate-degree-granting colleges and other appropriate public and private sector entities;
(B) provide for private sector donations, faculty opportunities to have short-term assignments with industry, sharing of program costs, equipment loans, and the cooperative use of laboratories, plants, and other facilities, and provision for state-of-the-art work experience opportunities for students enrolled in such programs; and
(C) encourage participation of individuals identified in
(4) the acquisition of state-of-the-art instrumentation essential to programs designed to prepare and upgrade students in scientific and advanced-technology fields; and
(5) the development and dissemination of instructional materials in support of improving the advanced scientific and technical education and training capabilities of associate-degree-granting colleges, including programs for students who are not pursuing a science degree.
(b) National centers of scientific and technical education
The Director shall award grants for the establishment of centers of excellence, not to exceed 10 in number, among associate-degree-granting colleges. Centers shall meet one or both of the following criteria:
(1) Exceptional instructional programs in advanced-technology fields.
(2) Excellence in undergraduate education in mathematics and science.
The centers shall serve as national and regional clearinghouses and models for the benefit of both colleges and secondary schools, and shall provide seminars and programs to disseminate model curricula and model teaching methods and instructional materials to other associate-degree-granting colleges in the geographic region served by the center.
(c) Articulation partnerships
(1) Partnership grants
(A) The Director shall make grants to eligible partnerships to encourage students to pursue bachelor degrees in mathematics, science, engineering, or technology, and to assist students pursuing bachelor degrees in mathematics, science, engineering, or technology to make the transition from associate-degree-granting colleges to bachelor-degree-granting institutions, through such means as—
(i) examining curricula to ensure that academic credit earned at the associate-degree-granting college is transferable to bachelor-degree-granting institutions;
(ii) informing teachers from the associate-degree-granting college on the specific requirements of courses at the bachelor-degree-granting institution; and
(iii) providing summer educational programs for students from the associate-degree-granting college to encourage such students' subsequent matriculation at bachelor-degree-granting institutions.
(B) Each eligible partnership receiving a grant under this paragraph shall, at a minimum—
(i) counsel students, including students who have been in the workforce (including work in the home), about the requirements and course offerings of the bachelor-degree-granting institution;
(ii) conduct workshops and orientation sessions to ensure that students are familiar with programs, including laboratories and financial aid programs, at the bachelor-degree-granting institution;
(iii) provide students with research experiences at bachelor's-degree-granting institutions participating in the partnership, including stipend support for students participating in summer programs; and
(iv) provide faculty mentors for students participating in activities under clause (iii), including summer salary support for faculty mentors.
Funds used by eligible partnerships to carry out clauses (i) and (ii) shall be from non-Federal sources. In-cash and in-kind resources used by eligible partnerships to carry out clauses (i) and (ii) shall not be considered to be contributions for purposes of applying subsection (i)(3).
(C) Any institution participating in a partnership that receives a grant under this paragraph shall be ineligible to receive assistance under part B of title I of the Higher Education Act of 1965 [
(2) Outreach grants
The Director shall make grants to associate-degree-granting colleges with outstanding mathematics and science programs to strengthen relationships with secondary schools in the community served by the college by improving mathematics and science education and encouraging the interest and aptitude of secondary school students for careers in science and advanced-technology fields through such means as developing agreements with local educational agencies to enable students to satisfy entrance and course requirements at the associate-degree-granting college.
(3) Mentor training grants
The Director shall—
(A) establish a program to encourage and make grants available to institutions of higher education that award associate degrees to recruit and train individuals from the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics to mentor students who are described in
(B) make grants available to associate-degree-granting colleges to carry out the program identified in subsection 1 (A).
(d) Grants for associate degree programs in STEM fields
(1) In-demand workforce grants
The Director shall award grants to junior or community colleges to develop or improve associate degree or certificate programs in STEM fields, with respect to the region in which the respective college is located, and an in-demand industry sector or occupation.
(2) Applications
In considering applications for grants under paragraph (1), the Director shall prioritize—
(A) applications that consist of a partnership between the applying junior or community college and individual employers or an employer consortia,2 or industry or sector partnerships, and may include a university or other organization with demonstrated expertise in academic program development;
(B) applications that demonstrate current and future workforce demand in occupations directly related to the proposed associate degree or certificate program;
(C) applications that include commitments by the partnering employers or employer consortia, or industry or sector partnerships, to offer apprenticeships, internships, or other applied learning opportunities to students enrolled in the proposed associate degree or certificate program;
(D) applications that include outreach plans and goals for recruiting and enrolling women and other underrepresented populations in STEM fields in the proposed associate degree or certificate program; and
(E) applications that describe how the applying junior or community college will support the collection of information and data for purposes of evaluation of the proposed associate degree or certificate program.
(e) Grants for STEM degree applied learning opportunities
(1) In general
The Director shall award grants to institutions of higher education partnering with private sector employers or private sector employer consortia, or industry or sector partnerships, that commit to offering apprenticeships, internships, research opportunities, or applied learning experiences to enrolled students in identified STEM baccalaureate degree programs.
(2) Purposes
Awards under this subsection may be used—
(A) to develop curricula and programs for apprenticeship, internships, research opportunities, or applied learning experiences; or
(B) to provide matching funds to incentivize partnership and participation by private sector employers and industry.
(3) Applications
In considering applications for grants under paragraph (1), the Director shall prioritize—
(A) applicants that consist of a partnership between—
(i) the applying institution of higher education; and
(ii) individual employers or an employer consortia,2 or industry or sector partnerships;
(B) applications that demonstrate current and future workforce demand in occupations directly related to the identified STEM fields;
(C) applications that include outreach plans and goals for recruiting and enrolling women and other underrepresented populations in STEM fields; and
(D) applications that describe how the institution of higher education will support the collection and information of data for purposes of the evaluation of identified STEM degree programs.
(f) Grants for computer-based and online STEM education courses
(1) In general
The Director of the National Science Foundation shall award competitive grants to institutions of higher education or nonprofit organizations to conduct research on student outcomes and determine best practices for STEM education and technical skills education through distance learning or in a simulated work environment.
(2) Research areas
The research areas eligible for funding under this subsection may include—
(A) post-secondary courses for technical skills development for STEM occupations;
(B) improving high-school level career and technical education in STEM subjects;
(C) encouraging and sustaining interest and achievement levels in STEM subjects among women and other populations historically underrepresented in STEM studies and careers; and
(D) combining computer-based and online STEM education and skills development with traditional mentoring and other mentoring arrangements, apprenticeships, internships, and other applied learning opportunities.
(g) Coordination with other Federal departments
In carrying out this section, the Director shall consult, cooperate, and coordinate, to enhance program effectiveness and to avoid duplication, with the programs and policies of other relevant Federal agencies. In carrying out subsection (c), the Director shall coordinate activities with programs receiving assistance under part B of title I of the Higher Education Act of 1965 [
(h) Funding
(1) Funding
The Director shall allocate out of amounts made available for the Education and Human Resources Directorate—
(A) up to $5,000,000 to carry out the activities under subsection (d) for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2022, subject to the availability of appropriations;
(B) up to $2,500,000 to carry out the activities under subsection (e) for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2022, subject to the availability of appropriations; and
(C) up to $2,500,000 to carry out the activities under subsection (f) for each of fiscal years 2019 through 2022, subject to the availability of appropriations.
(2) Limitation on funding
Amounts made available to carry out subsections (d), (e), and (f) shall be derived from amounts appropriated or otherwise made available to the National Science Foundation.
(3) Limitation on funding
To qualify for a grant under this section, an associate-degree-granting college, or consortium thereof, shall provide assurances adequate to the Director that it will not decrease its level of spending of funds from non-Federal sources on advanced scientific and technical education and training programs.
(i) Functions of Director
In carrying out
(1) award grants on a competitive, merit basis;
(2) ensure an equitable geographic distribution of grant awards;
(3) ensure that an applicant for a grant awarded under subsection (a), (b), or (c)(1) will make an in-cash or in-kind contribution in an amount equal to at least 25 percent of the cost of the program, and for a grant awarded under subsection (c)(2) will make an in-cash or in-kind contribution in an amount at least equal to the amount of the grant award;
(4) establish and maintain a readily accessible inventory of the programs assisted under
(5) designate an officer of the National Science Foundation to serve as a liaison with associate-degree-granting institutions for the purpose of enhancing the role of such institutions in the activities of the Foundation.
(j) Definitions
As used in this section—
(1) the term "advanced-technology" includes advanced technical activities such as the modernization, miniaturization, integration, and computerization of electronic, hydraulic, pneumatic, laser, nuclear, chemical, telecommunication, fiber optic, robotic, and other technological applications to enhance productivity improvements in manufacturing, communication, transportation, commercial, and similar economic and national security activities;
(2) the term "associate-degree-granting college" means an institution of higher education (as determined under section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 [
(A) is a nonprofit institution that offers a 2-year associate-degree program or a 2-year certificate program; or
(B) is a proprietary institution that offers a 2-year associate-degree program;
(3) the term "bachelor-degree-granting institution" means an institution of higher education (as determined under section 101 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 [
(4) the term "eligible partnership" means one or more associate-degree-granting colleges in partnership with one or more separate bachelor-degree-granting institutions;
(5) the term "in-demand industry sector or occupation" has the meaning given the term in
(6) the term "junior or community college" has the meaning given the term in section 312 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (
(7) the term "local educational agency" has the meaning given such term in section 2891(12) 3 of title 20.4
(8) the term "region" means a labor market area, as that term is defined in
(9) the terms "mathematics, science, engineering, or technology" or "STEM" mean science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, including computer science.
(
References in Text
The Higher Education Act of 1965, referred to in subsecs. (c)(1)(C) and (g), is
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the Scientific and Advanced-Technology Act of 1992, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
2018—Subsec. (a)(3)(A).
Subsec. (c)(1)(B).
Subsecs. (d) to (f).
Subsec. (g).
Subsec. (h).
Subsec. (i).
Subsec. (j).
Subsec. (j)(5) to (9).
2007—Subsec. (a)(3)(A).
Subsec. (a)(3)(B), (C).
Subsec. (c)(3).
2002—Subsec. (a).
Subsec. (a)(1).
Subsec. (a)(2).
Subsec. (c)(1)(B)(iii), (iv).
1998—Subsec. (g)(2), (3).
Effective Date of 1998 Amendment
Amendment by
Findings
"(1) To remain competitive in the global economy, foster greater innovation, and provide a foundation for shared prosperity, the United States needs a workforce with the right mix of skills to meet the diverse needs of the economy.
"(2) Evidence indicates that the returns on investments in technical skills in the labor market are strong when students successfully complete their education and gain credentials sought by employers.
"(3) The responsibility for developing and sustaining a skilled technical workforce is fragmented across many groups, including educators, students, workers, employers, Federal, State, and local governments, civic associations, and other stakeholders. Such groups need to be able to coordinate and cooperate successfully with each other.
"(4) Coordination among students, community colleges, secondary and post-secondary institutions, and employers would improve educational outcomes.
"(5) Promising experiments currently underway may guide innovation and reform, but scalability of some of those experiments has not yet been tested.
"(6) Evidence suggests that integration of academic education, technical skills development, and hands-on work experience improves outcomes and return on investment for students in secondary and post-secondary education and for skilled technical workers in different career stages.
"(7) Outcomes show that mentoring can increase STEM student engagement and the rate of completion of STEM post-secondary degrees."
1 So in original. Probably should be "subparagraph".
3 See References in Text note below.
4 So in original. The period probably should be a semicolon.
§1862j. Authorization of appropriations
There are authorized to be appropriated, from sums otherwise authorized to be appropriated, to the Director for carrying out
(1) $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1992; and
(2) $35,000,000 for fiscal year 1993.
(
References in Text
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the Scientific and Advanced-Technology Act of 1992, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
§1862k. Findings; core strategies
(a) Findings
Congress finds the following:
(1) The United States depends upon its scientific and technological capabilities to preserve the military and economic security of the United States.
(2) America's leadership in the global marketplace is dependent upon a strong commitment to education, basic research, and development.
(3) A nation that is not technologically literate cannot compete in the emerging global economy.
(4) A coordinated commitment to mathematics and science instruction at all levels of education is a necessary component of successful efforts to produce technologically literate citizens.
(5) Professional development is a necessary component of efforts to produce system-wide improvements in mathematics, engineering, and science education in secondary, elementary, and postsecondary settings.
(6)(A) The mission of the National Science Foundation is to provide Federal support for basic scientific and engineering research, and to be a primary contributor to mathematics, science, and engineering education at academic institutions in the United States.
(B) In accordance with such mission, the long-term goals of the National Science Foundation include providing leadership to—
(i) enable the United States to maintain a position of world leadership in all aspects of science, mathematics, engineering, and technology;
(ii) promote the discovery, integration, dissemination, and application of new knowledge in service to society; and
(iii) achieve excellence in United States science, mathematics, engineering, and technology education at all levels.
(b) Core strategies
In carrying out activities designed to achieve the goals described in subsection (a), the Foundation shall use the following core strategies:
(1) Develop intellectual capital, both people and ideas, with particular emphasis on groups and regions that traditionally have not participated fully in science, mathematics, and engineering.
(2) Strengthen the scientific infrastructure by investing in facilities planning and modernization, instrument acquisition, instrument design and development, and shared-use research platforms.
(3) Integrate research and education through activities that emphasize and strengthen the natural connections between learning and inquiry.
(4) Promote partnerships with industry, elementary and secondary schools, community colleges, colleges and universities, other agencies, State and local governments, and other institutions involved in science, mathematics, and engineering to enhance the delivery of math and science education and improve the technological literacy of the citizens of the United States.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1998, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Indirect Costs
"(a)
"(b)
"(1)
"(A) analyzing the Federal indirect cost reimbursement rates (as the term is defined in Office of Management and Budget Circular A–21) paid to universities in comparison with Federal indirect cost reimbursement rates paid to other entities, such as industry, government laboratories, research hospitals, and nonprofit institutions;
"(B)(i) analyzing the distribution of the Federal indirect cost reimbursement rates by category (such as administration, facilities, utilities, and libraries), and by the type of entity; and
"(ii) determining what factors, including the type of research, influence the distribution;
"(C) analyzing the impact, if any, that changes in Office of Management and Budget Circular A–21 have had on—
"(i) the Federal indirect cost reimbursement rates, the rate of change of the Federal indirect cost reimbursement rates, the distribution by category of the Federal indirect cost reimbursement rates, and the distribution by type of entity of the Federal indirect cost reimbursement rates; and
"(ii) the Federal indirect cost reimbursement (as calculated in accordance with Office of Management and Budget Circular A–21), the rate of change of the Federal indirect cost reimbursement, the distribution by category of the Federal indirect cost reimbursement, and the distribution by type of entity of the Federal indirect cost reimbursement;
"(D) analyzing the impact, if any, of Federal and State law on the Federal indirect cost reimbursement rates;
"(E)(i) analyzing options to reduce or control the rate of growth of the Federal indirect cost reimbursement rates, including options such as benchmarking of facilities and equipment cost, elimination of cost studies, mandated percentage reductions in the Federal indirect cost reimbursement; and
"(ii) assessing the benefits and burdens of the options to the Federal Government, research institutions, and researchers; and
"(F) analyzing options for creating a database—
"(i) for tracking the Federal indirect cost reimbursement rates and the Federal indirect cost reimbursement; and
"(ii) for analyzing the impact that changes in policies with respect to Federal indirect cost reimbursement will have on the Federal Government, researchers, and research institutions.
"(2)
Notice; Enhancement of Science and Mathematics Programs
"SEC. 205. NOTICE.
"(a)
"(b)
"SEC. 206. ENHANCEMENT OF SCIENCE AND MATHEMATICS PROGRAMS.
"(a)
"(1)
"(2)
"(b)
"(1)
"(2)
"(A)
"(B)
Definitions
"(1)
"(2)
"(3)
"(4)
"(5)
"(6)
§1862l. National research facilities
(a) Facilities plan
(1) In general
The Director shall prepare, and include as part of the Foundation's annual budget request to Congress, a plan for the proposed construction of, and repair and upgrades to, national research facilities, including full life-cycle cost information.
(2) Contents of the plan
The plan shall include—
(A) estimates of the costs for the construction, repairs, and upgrades described in paragraph (1), including costs for instrumentation development;
(B) estimates of the costs for the operation and maintenance of existing and proposed new facilities;
(C) in the case of proposed new construction and for major upgrades to existing facilities, funding profiles, by fiscal year, and milestones for major phases of the construction;
(D) for each project funded under the major research equipment and facilities construction account and for major upgrades of facilities in support of Antarctic research programs—
(i) estimates of the total project cost (from planning to commissioning); and
(ii) the source of funds, including Federal funding identified by appropriations category and non-Federal funding;
(E) estimates of the full life-cycle cost of each national research facility;
(F) information on any plans to retire national research facilities; and
(G) estimates of funding levels for grants supporting research that will be conducted using each national research facility.
(3) Special rule
The plan shall include cost estimates in the categories of construction, repair, and upgrades—
(A) for the year in which the plan is submitted to Congress; and
(B) for not fewer than the succeeding 4 years.
(b) Status of facilities under construction
The plan required under subsection (a) shall include a status report for each uncompleted construction project included in current and previous plans. The status report shall include data on cumulative construction costs by project compared with estimated costs, and shall compare the current and original schedules for achievement of milestones for the major phases of the construction.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1998, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
2007—Subsec. (a)(2)(D).
2002—Subsec. (a)(1).
Subsec. (a)(2)(A).
Subsec. (a)(2)(D) to (G).
§1862m. Financial disclosure
Persons temporarily employed by or at the Foundation shall be subject to the same financial disclosure requirements and related sanctions under the Ethics in Government Act of 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.) as are permanent employees of the Foundation in equivalent positions.
(
References in Text
The Ethics in Government Act of 1978, referred to in text, is
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1998, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
§1862n. Mathematics and science education partnerships
(a) Program authorized
(1) In general
(A) The Director shall carry out a program to award grants to institutions of higher education or eligible nonprofit organizations (or consortia of such institutions or organizations) to establish mathematics and science education partnership programs to improve elementary and secondary mathematics and science instruction.
(B) Grants shall be awarded under this subsection on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis.
(2) Partnerships
(A) In order to be eligible to receive a grant under this subsection, an institution of higher education or eligible nonprofit organization (or consortium of such institutions or organizations) shall enter into a partnership with one or more local educational agencies that may also include the department, college, or program of education at an institution of higher education, a State educational agency, or one or more businesses.
(B) A participating institution of higher education shall include mathematics, science, or engineering departments in the programs carried out through a partnership under this paragraph.
(3) Uses of funds
Grants awarded under this subsection shall be used for activities that draw upon the expertise of the partners to improve elementary or secondary education in mathematics or science and that are consistent with State mathematics and science student academic achievement standards, including—
(A) recruiting and preparing students for careers in elementary or secondary mathematics or science education;
(B) offering professional development programs, including—
(i) teacher institutes for the 21st century, as described in paragraph (10); and
(ii) academic year institutes or workshops that—
(I) are designed to strengthen the capabilities of mathematics and science teachers; and
(II) may include professional development activities to prepare mathematics and science teachers to teach challenging mathematics, science, and technology college-preparatory courses;
(C) offering innovative preservice and inservice programs that instruct teachers on using technology and laboratory experiences more effectively in teaching mathematics and science, including programs that recruit and train undergraduate and graduate students to provide technical and laboratory support to teachers;
(D) developing distance learning programs for teachers or students, including developing courses, curricular materials, and other resources for the in-service professional development of teachers that are made available to teachers through the Internet;
(E) developing a cadre of master teachers who will promote reform and improvement in schools;
(F) offering teacher preparation and certification programs for professional mathematicians, scientists, and engineers who wish to begin a career in teaching;
(G) developing tools to evaluate activities conducted under this subsection;
(H) developing or adapting elementary school and secondary school mathematics and science curricular materials that incorporate contemporary research on the science of learning;
(I) developing initiatives to increase and sustain the number, quality, and diversity of prekindergarten through grade 12 teachers of mathematics and science, including the use of induction programs, as defined in section 9813(h) 1 of title 20, for teachers in their first 2 years of teaching, especially in underserved areas;
(J) using mathematicians, scientists, and engineers employed by private businesses to help recruit and train mathematics and science teachers;
(K) developing science, technology, engineering, and mathematics educational programs and materials and conducting science, technology, engineering, and mathematics enrichment programs for students, including after-school programs and summer programs, with an emphasis on including and serving students described in subsection (b)(2)(G);
(L) providing research opportunities in business or academia for students and teachers;
(M) bringing mathematicians, scientists, and engineers from business and academia into elementary school and secondary school classrooms; and
(N) any other activities the Director determines will accomplish the goals of this subsection.
(4) Master teachers
Activities carried out in accordance with paragraph (3)(E) shall—
(A) emphasize the training of master teachers who will improve the instruction of mathematics or science in kindergarten through grade 12;
(B) include training in both content and pedagogy; and
(C) provide training only to teachers who will be granted sufficient nonclassroom time to serve as master teachers, as demonstrated by assurances their employing school has provided to the Director, in such time and such manner as the Director may require.
(5) Science enrichment programs for girls
Activities carried out in accordance with paragraph (3)(K) and (L) shall include elementary school and secondary school programs to encourage the ongoing interest of girls in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology and to prepare girls to pursue undergraduate and graduate degrees and careers in science, mathematics, engineering, or technology. Funds made available through awards to partnerships for the purposes of this paragraph may support programs for—
(A) encouraging girls to pursue studies in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology and to major in such fields in postsecondary education;
(B) tutoring girls in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology;
(C) providing mentors for girls in person and through the Internet to support such girls in pursuing studies in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology;
(D) educating the parents of girls about the difficulties faced by girls to maintain an interest and desire to achieve in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology, and enlisting the help of parents in overcoming these difficulties; and
(E) acquainting girls with careers in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology and encouraging girls to plan for careers in such fields.
(6) Research in secondary schools
Activities carried out in accordance with paragraph (3)(K) may include support for research projects performed by students at secondary schools. Uses of funds made available through awards to partnerships for purposes of this paragraph may include—
(A) training secondary school mathematics and science teachers in the design of research projects for students;
(B) establishing a system for students and teachers involved in research projects funded under this subsection to exchange information about their projects and research results; and
(C) assessing the educational value of the student research projects by such means as tracking the academic performance and choice of academic majors of students conducting research.
(7) Stipends
Grants awarded under this subsection may be used to provide stipends for teachers or students participating in training or research activities that would not be part of their typical classroom activities.
(8) Mentors for teachers and students of challenging courses
Partnerships carrying out activities to prepare mathematics and science teachers to teach challenging mathematics, science, and technology college-preparatory courses in accordance with paragraph (3)(B) shall encourage companies employing scientists, technologists, engineers, or mathematicians to provide mentors to teachers and students and provide for the coordination of such mentoring activities.
(9) Innovation
Activities carried out in accordance with paragraph (3)(H) may include the development and dissemination of curriculum tools that will help foster inventiveness and innovation.
(10) Teacher institutes for the 21st century
(A) In general
Teacher institutes for the 21st century carried out in accordance with paragraph (3)(B) shall—
(i) be carried out in conjunction with a school served by the local educational agency in the partnership;
(ii) be science, technology, engineering, and mathematics focused institutes that provide professional development to elementary school and secondary school teachers;
(iii) serve teachers who—
(I) are considered highly qualified (as defined in section 9101 1 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 [
(II) teach high-need subjects in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics; and
(III) teach in high-need schools (as described in section 1114(a)(1)(A) 1);
(iv) focus on the priorities developed by the Director in consultation with a broad group of relevant educational organizations;
(v) be content-based and build on school year curricula that are experiment-oriented, content-based, and grounded in current research;
(vi) ensure that the pedagogy component is designed around specific strategies that are relevant to teaching the subject and content on which teachers are being trained, which may include training teachers in the essential components of reading instruction for adolescents in order to improve student reading skills within the subject areas of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics;
(vii) be a multiyear program that is conducted for a period of not less than 2 weeks per year;
(viii) provide for direct interaction between participants in and faculty of the teacher institute;
(ix) have a component that includes the use of the Internet;
(x) provide for followup training in the classroom during the academic year for a period of not less than 3 days, which may or may not be consecutive, for participants in the teacher institute, except that for teachers in rural local educational agencies, the followup training may be provided through the Internet;
(xi) provide teachers participating in the teacher institute with travel expense reimbursement and classroom materials related to the teacher institute, and may include providing stipends as necessary; and
(xii) establish a mechanism to provide supplemental support during the academic year for teacher institute participants to apply the knowledge and skills gained at the teacher institute.
(B) Optional members of the partnership
In addition to the partnership requirement under paragraph (2), an institution of higher education or eligible nonprofit organization (or consortium) desiring a grant for a teacher institute for the 21st century may also partner with a teacher organization, museum, or educational partnership organization.
(b) Selection process
(1) Application
An institution of higher education or an eligible nonprofit organization (or a consortium of such institutions or organizations) seeking funding under subsection (a) shall submit an application to the Director at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director may require. The application shall include, at a minimum—
(A) a description of the partnership and the role that each member will play in implementing the proposal;
(B) a description of each of the activities to be carried out, including—
(i) how such activities will be aligned with State mathematics and science student academic achievement standards and with other activities that promote student achievement in mathematics and science;
(ii) how such activities will be based on a review of relevant research;
(iii) why such activities are expected to improve student performance and strengthen the quality of mathematics and science instruction; and
(iv) any activities that will encourage the interest of individuals identified in
(C) a description of the number, size, and nature of any stipends that will be provided to students or teachers and the reasons such stipends are needed;
(D) a description of how the partnership will serve as a catalyst for reform of mathematics and science education programs;
(E) a description of how the partnership will assess its success;
(F) a description of how the partnership will collaborate with the State educational agency to ensure that successful partnership activities may be replicated throughout the State; and
(G) a description of the manner in which the partnership will be continued after assistance under this section ends.
(2) Review of applications
In evaluating the applications submitted under paragraph (1), the Director shall consider, at a minimum—
(A) the ability of the partnership to carry out effectively the proposed programs;
(B) the extent to which the members of the partnership are committed to making the partnership a central organizational focus;
(C) the degree to which activities carried out by the partnership are based on relevant research and are likely to result in increased student achievement;
(D) the degree to which such activities are aligned with State mathematics and science student academic achievement standards;
(E) the extent to which the evaluation described in paragraph (1)(E) will be independent and based on objective measures;
(F) the likelihood that the partnership will demonstrate activities that can be widely implemented as part of larger scale reform efforts; and
(G) the extent to which the activities will encourage the interest of individuals identified in
(3) Awards
In awarding grants under this section, the Director shall—
(A) give priority to applications in which the partnership includes a high-need local educational agency or a high-need local educational agency in which at least one school does not make adequate yearly progress, as determined pursuant to part A of title I of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965 (
(B) ensure that, to the extent practicable, a substantial number of the partnerships funded under this section include businesses.
(c) Accountability and dissemination
(1) Assessment required
The Director shall evaluate the program established under subsection (a). At a minimum, such evaluation shall—
(A) use a common set of benchmarks and assessment tools to identify best practices and materials developed and demonstrated by the partnerships; and
(B) to the extent practicable, compare the effectiveness of practices and materials developed and demonstrated by the partnerships authorized under this section with those of partnerships funded by other State or Federal agencies.
(2) Report on evaluations
Not later than 4 years after August 9, 2007, the Director shall transmit a report summarizing the evaluations required under subsection (b)(1)(E) of grants received under this program and describing any changes to the program recommended as a result of these evaluations to the Committee on Science and Technology and the Committee on Education and Labor of the House of Representatives and to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate. Such report shall be made widely available to the public.
(3) Annual meeting
The Director, in consultation with the Secretary of Education, shall convene an annual meeting of the partnerships participating under this section to foster greater national collaboration.
(4) Technical assistance
At the request of an eligible partnership or a State educational agency, the Director shall provide the partnership or agency with technical assistance in meeting any requirements of this section, including providing advice from experts on how to develop—
(A) a quality application for a grant; and
(B) quality activities from funds received from a grant under this section.
(d) Definitions
In this section—
(1) the term "mathematics and science teacher" means a science, technology, engineering, or mathematics teacher at the elementary school or secondary school level; and
(2) the term "science", in the context of elementary and secondary education, includes technology and pre-engineering.
(
References in Text
Section 9101 of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, referred to in subsec. (a)(10)(A)(iii)(I), was amended by
Section 1114(a)(1)(A), referred to in subsec. (a)(10)(A)(iii)(III), probably means section 1114(a)(1)(A) of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, which is classified to
The Elementary and Secondary Education Act of 1965, referred to in subsec. (b)(3)(A), is
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
2017—Subsec. (c)(4), (5).
2015—Subsec. (a)(10)(A)(iii)(III).
Subsec. (c)(4).
2007—Subsec. (a)(2)(A).
Subsec. (a)(3)(B).
Subsec. (a)(3)(C).
Subsec. (a)(3)(I).
Subsec. (a)(3)(K).
Subsec. (a)(8), (9).
Subsec. (a)(10).
Subsec. (b)(2)(E) to (G).
Subsec. (c)(2).
"(A) The results of the evaluation required under paragraph (1) shall be made available to the public and shall be provided to the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate.
"(B) Materials developed under the program established under subsection (a) of this section that are demonstrated to be effective shall be made widely available to the public."
Subsec. (d).
Change of Name
Committee on Science of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Tenth Congress, Jan. 5, 2007. Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, Jan. 5, 2011.
Effective Date of 2015 Amendment
Amendment by
Findings
"(1) The National Science Foundation has made major contributions for more than 50 years to strengthen and sustain the Nation's academic research enterprise that is the envy of the world.
"(2) The economic strength and national security of the United States and the quality of life of all Americans are grounded in the Nation's scientific and technological capabilities.
"(3) The National Science Foundation carries out important functions in supporting basic research in all science and engineering disciplines and in supporting science, mathematics, engineering, and technology education at all levels.
"(4) The research and education activities of the National Science Foundation promote the discovery, integration, dissemination, and application of new knowledge in service to society and prepare future generations of scientists, mathematicians, and engineers who will be necessary to ensure America's leadership in the global marketplace.
"(5) The National Science Foundation must be provided with sufficient resources to enable it to carry out its responsibilities to develop intellectual capital, strengthen the scientific infrastructure, integrate research and education, enhance the delivery of mathematics and science education in the United States, and improve the technological literacy of all people in the United States.
"(6) The emerging global economic, scientific, and technical environment challenges long-standing assumptions about domestic and international policy, requiring the National Science Foundation to play a more proactive role in sustaining the competitive advantage of the United States through superior research capabilities.
"(7) Commercial application of the results of Federal investment in basic and computing science is consistent with longstanding United States technology transfer policy and is a critical national priority, particularly with regard to cybersecurity and other homeland security applications, because of the urgent needs of commercial, academic, and individual users as well as the Federal and State Governments."
Report on Foundation Budgetary and Programmatic Expansion
Definitions
"(1)
"(2)
"(3)
"(4)
"(5)
"(6)
"(7)
"(8)
"(A) It has at least one school in which 50 percent or more of the enrolled students are eligible for participation in the free and reduced price lunch program established by the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act (
"(B) It has at least one school in which—
"(i) more than 34 percent of the academic classroom teachers at the secondary level (across all academic subjects) do not have an undergraduate degree with a major or minor in, or a graduate degree in, the academic field in which they teach the largest percentage of their classes; or
"(ii) more than 34 percent of the teachers in two of the academic departments do not have an undergraduate degree with a major or minor in, or a graduate degree in, the academic field in which they teach the largest percentage of their classes.
"(C) It has at least one school whose teacher attrition rate has been 15 percent or more over the last three school years.
"(9)
"(10)
"(11)
"(A) participating in the development or revision of science, mathematics, engineering, or technology curricula;
"(B) serving as a mentor to mathematics or science teachers;
"(C) coordinating and assisting teachers in the use of hands-on inquiry materials, equipment, and supplies, and when appropriate, supervising acquisition and repair of such materials;
"(D) providing in-classroom teaching assistance to mathematics or science teachers; and
"(E) providing professional development, including for the purposes of training other master teachers, to mathematics and science teachers.
"(12)
"(13)
"(14)
"(15)
"(16)
1 See References in Text note below.
§1862n–1. Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program
(a) Scholarship program
(1) In general
The Director shall carry out a program to award grants to eligible entities to recruit and train mathematics and science teachers and to provide scholarships and stipends to individuals participating in the program. Such program shall be known as the "Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program".
(2) Merit review
Grants shall be provided under this section on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis.
(3) Use of grants
A grant provided under this section shall be used by the eligible entity—
(A) to develop and implement a program to recruit and prepare undergraduate students majoring in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics at the eligible entity (and participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) to become qualified as mathematics and science teachers, through—
(i) administering scholarships in accordance with subsection (c);
(ii) offering academic courses and early clinical teaching experiences designed to prepare students participating in the program to teach in elementary schools and secondary schools, including such preparation as is necessary to meet requirements for teacher certification or licensing;
(iii) offering programs to students participating in the program, both before and after the students receive their baccalaureate degree, to enable the students to become better mathematics and science teachers, to fulfill the service requirements of this section, and to exchange ideas with others in the students' fields; and
(iv) providing summer internships for freshman and sophomore students participating in the program, including research experiences at national laboratories and NASA centers; or
(B) to develop and implement a program to recruit and prepare science, technology, engineering, or mathematics professionals to become qualified as mathematics and science teachers, through—
(i) administering stipends in accordance with subsection (d);
(ii) offering academic courses and clinical teaching experiences designed to prepare stipend recipients to teach in elementary schools and secondary schools served by a high need local educational agency, including such preparation as is necessary to meet requirements for teacher certification or licensing; and
(iii) offering programs to stipend recipients, both during and after matriculation in the program for which the stipend is received, to enable recipients to become better mathematics and science teachers, to fulfill the service requirements of this section, and to exchange ideas with others in the students' fields.
(4) Eligibility requirement
(A) In general
To be eligible to receive a grant under this section, an eligible entity shall ensure that specific faculty members and staff from the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics departments and specific education faculty of the eligible entity (and participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) are designated to carry out the development and implementation of the program.
(B) Inclusion of master teachers
An eligible entity (and participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) receiving a grant under this section may also include master teachers in the development of the pedagogical content of the program and in the supervision of students participating in the program in their clinical teaching experiences.
(C) Active participants
No eligible entity (or participating institution of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) shall be eligible for a grant under this section unless faculty from the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics departments of the eligible entity (and participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) are active participants in the program.
(5) Awards
In awarding grants under this section, the Director shall ensure that the eligible entities (and participating institutions of higher education of the consortia, if applicable) represent a variety of types of institutions of higher education. In support of this goal, the Director shall broadly disseminate information about when and how to apply for grants under this section, including by conducting outreach to—
(A) historically Black colleges and universities that are part B institutions, as defined in section 322(2) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (
(B) minority institutions, as defined in section 365(3) of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (
(C) higher education programs that serve or support veterans.
(6) Supplement not supplant
Grant funds provided under this section shall be used to supplement, and not supplant, other Federal or State funds available for the type of activities supported by the grant.
(b) Selection process
(1) Application
An eligible entity seeking funding under this section shall submit an application to the Director at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director may require. The application shall include, at a minimum—
(A) in the case of an applicant that is submitting an application on behalf of a consortium of institutions of higher education, a description of the participating institutions of higher education and the roles and responsibilities of each such institution;
(B) a description of the program that the applicant intends to operate, including the number of scholarships and summer internships or the size and number of stipends the applicant intends to award, the type of activities proposed for the recruitment of students to the program, and the selection process that will be used in awarding the scholarships or stipends;
(C) evidence that the applicant has the capability to administer the program in accordance with the provisions of this section, which may include a description of any existing programs at the applicant eligible entity (and participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) that are targeted to the education of mathematics and science teachers and the number of teachers graduated annually from such programs;
(D) a description of the academic courses and clinical teaching experiences required under subparagraphs (A)(ii) and (B)(ii) of subsection (a)(3), as applicable, including—
(i) a description of the undergraduate program that will enable a student to graduate within 5 years with a major in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics and to obtain teacher certification or licensing;
(ii) a description of the clinical teaching experiences proposed; and
(iii) evidence of agreements between the applicant and the schools or local educational agencies that are identified as the locations at which clinical teaching experiences will occur;
(E) a description of the programs required under subparagraphs (A)(iii) and (B)(iii) of subsection (a)(3), including activities to assist new teachers in fulfilling the teachers' service requirements under this section;
(F) an identification of the applicant eligible entity's science, technology, engineering, and mathematics faculty and its education faculty (and such faculty of participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) who will carry out the development and implementation of the program as required under subsection (a)(4); and
(G) a description of the process the applicant will use to fulfill the requirements of subsection (f).
(2) Review of applications
In evaluating the applications submitted under paragraph (1), the Director shall consider, at a minimum—
(A) the ability of the applicant (and the participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) to effectively carry out the program;
(B) the extent to which the applicant's science, technology, engineering, and mathematics faculty and its education faculty (and such faculty of participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) have worked or will work collaboratively to design new or revised curricula that recognize the specialized pedagogy required to teach science, technology, engineering, and mathematics effectively in elementary schools and secondary schools;
(C) the extent to which the applicant (and the participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) is committed to making the program a central organizational focus;
(D) the degree to which the proposed programming will enable scholarship or stipend recipients to become successful mathematics and science teachers;
(E) the number and academic qualifications of the students who will be served by the program; and
(F) the ability of the applicant (and the participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) to recruit students who would otherwise not pursue a career in teaching in elementary schools or secondary schools, students who are individuals identified in
(c) Scholarship requirements
(1) In general
Scholarships under this section shall be available only to students who—
(A) are majoring in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics; and
(B) have attained at least junior status in a baccalaureate degree program.
(2) Selection
Individuals shall be selected to receive scholarships primarily on the basis of academic merit, with consideration given to financial need and to the goal of promoting the participation of individuals identified in
(3) Amount
The Director shall establish for each year the amount to be awarded for scholarships under this section for that year, which shall be not less than $10,000 per year, except that no individual shall receive for any year more than the cost of attendance at that individual's institution. Full-time students may receive annual scholarships through the completion of a baccalaureate degree program, not to exceed a maximum of 3 years. Part-time students may receive scholarships that are prorated according to such students' enrollment status, not to exceed 6 years of scholarship support.
(4) Service obligation
If an individual receives a scholarship under this section, such individual shall be required to complete, within 8 years after graduation from the baccalaureate degree program for which the scholarship was awarded, 2 years of service as a mathematics or science teacher for each full scholarship award received, with a maximum service requirement of 6 years. Service required under this paragraph shall be performed in a high need local educational agency.
(d) Stipends
(1) In general
Stipends under this section shall be available only to science, technology, engineering, or mathematics professionals who, while receiving the stipend, are enrolled in a program established under subsection (a)(3)(B).
(2) Selection
Individuals shall be selected to receive stipends under this section primarily on the basis of academic merit and professional achievement, with consideration given to financial need and to the goal of promoting the participation of individuals identified in
(3) Amount and duration
Stipends under this section shall be not less than $10,000 per year, except that no individual shall receive for any year more than the cost of attendance at such individual's institution. Individuals may receive a maximum of 1 year of stipend support, except that if an individual is enrolled in a part-time program, such amount shall be prorated according to the length of the program.
(4) Service obligation
If an individual receives a stipend under this section, such individual shall be required to complete, within 4 years after graduation from the program for which the stipend was awarded, 2 years of service as a mathematics or science teacher. Service required under this paragraph shall be performed in a high need local educational agency.
(e) Conditions of support
As a condition of acceptance of a scholarship or stipend under this section, a recipient of a scholarship or stipend shall enter into an agreement with the eligible entity—
(1) accepting the terms of the scholarship or stipend pursuant to subsection (c) or subsection (d);
(2) agreeing to provide the eligible entity with annual certification of employment and up-to-date contact information and to participate in surveys conducted by the eligible entity as part of an ongoing assessment program; and
(3) establishing that if the service obligation required under this section is not completed, all or a portion of the scholarship or stipend received under this section shall be repaid in accordance with subsection (g).
(f) Collection for noncompliance
(1) Monitoring compliance
An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section shall, as a condition of participating in the program, enter into an agreement with the Director to monitor the compliance of scholarship or stipend recipients with their respective service requirements.
(2) Collection of repayment
(A) In general
In the event that a scholarship or stipend recipient is required to repay the scholarship or stipend under subsection (g), the eligible entity shall—
(i) be responsible for determining the repayment amounts and for notifying the recipient and the Director of the amount owed; and
(ii) collect such repayment amount within a period of time as determined under the agreement described in paragraph (1), or the repayment amount shall be treated as a loan in accordance with subparagraph (C).
(B) Returned to Treasury
Except as provided in subparagraph (C), any such repayment shall be returned to the Treasury of the United States.
(C) Retain percentage
An eligible entity may retain a percentage of any repayment the eligible entity collects to defray administrative costs associated with the collection. The Director shall establish a single, fixed percentage that will apply to all eligible entities.
(g) Failure to complete service obligation
(1) General rule
If an individual who has received a scholarship or stipend under this section—
(A) fails to maintain an acceptable level of academic standing in the educational institution in which the individual is enrolled, as determined by the Director;
(B) is dismissed from such educational institution for disciplinary reasons;
(C) withdraws from the program for which the award was made before the completion of such program;
(D) declares that the individual does not intend to fulfill the service obligation under this section; or
(E) fails to fulfill the service obligation of the individual under this section,
such individual shall be liable to the United States as provided in paragraph (2).
(2) Amount of repayment
(A) Less than one year of service
If a circumstance described in paragraph (1) occurs before the completion of 1 year of a service obligation under this section, the total amount of awards received by the individual under this section shall be repaid or such amount shall be treated as a loan to be repaid in accordance with subparagraph (C).
(B) More than one year of service
If a circumstance described in subparagraph (D) or (E) of paragraph (1) occurs after the completion of 1 year of a service obligation under this section—
(i) for a scholarship recipient, the total amount of scholarship awards received by the individual under this section, reduced by the ratio of the number of years of service completed divided by the number of years of service required, shall be repaid or such amount shall be treated as a loan to be repaid in accordance with subparagraph (C); and
(ii) for a stipend recipient, one-half of the total amount of stipends received by the individual under this section shall be repaid or such amount shall be treated as a loan to be repaid in accordance with subparagraph (C).
(C) Repayments
The loans described under subparagraphs (A) and (B) shall be payable to the Federal Government, consistent with the provisions of part B or D of title IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 [
(3) Exceptions
The Director may provide for the partial or total waiver or suspension of any service or payment obligation by an individual under this section whenever compliance by the individual with the obligation is impossible or would involve extreme hardship to the individual, or if enforcement of such obligation with respect to the individual would be unconscionable.
(h) Data collection
An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section shall supply to the Director any relevant statistical and demographic data on scholarship and stipend recipients the Director may request, including information on employment required under this section.
(i) Definitions
In this section—
(1) the term "cost of attendance" has the meaning given such term in section 472 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (
(2) the term "eligible entity" means—
(A) an institution of higher education; or
(B) an institution of higher education that receives grant funds on behalf of a consortium of institutions of higher education;
(3) the term "fellowship" means an award to an individual under
(4) the term "high need local educational agency" has the meaning given such term in section 201 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (
(5) the term "mathematics and science teacher" means a science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or computer science, including cybersecurity, teacher at the elementary school or secondary school level;
(6) the term "scholarship" means an award under subsection (c);
(7) the term "science, technology, engineering, or mathematics professional" means an individual who holds a baccalaureate, master's, or doctoral degree in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or computer science, including cybersecurity, and is working in or had a career in such field or a related area; and
(8) the term "stipend" means an award under subsection (d).
(j) Mathematics and science scholarship gift fund
In accordance with
(k) Assessment of teacher service and retention
Not later than 4 years after August 9, 2007, the Director shall transmit to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate and the Committee on Science and Technology of the House of Representatives a report on the effectiveness of the programs carried out under this section and
(1) fulfill the individuals' service obligation required under this section or
(2) remain in the teaching profession beyond the individuals' service obligation; and
(3) remain in the teaching profession in a high need local educational agency beyond the individuals' service obligation.
(l) Evaluation
Not less than 2 years after August 9, 2007, the Director, in consultation with the Secretary of Education, shall conduct an evaluation to determine whether the scholarships, stipends, and fellowships authorized under this section and
(
References in Text
The Higher Education Act of 1965, referred to in subsec. (g)(2)(C), is
Codification
Section 7030 of
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
2020—Subsec. (a)(5)(C).
Subsec. (b)(2)(F).
Subsec. (c)(2).
Subsec. (d)(2).
2018—Subsec. (a)(3)(A)(iv).
2017—Subsec. (i)(5).
Subsec. (i)(7).
2015—Subsec. (i)(5).
2007—
Change of Name
Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, Jan. 5, 2011.
Effective Date of 2018 Amendment
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 4 of
§1862n–1a. National Science Foundation Teaching Fellowships and Master Teaching Fellowships
(a) In general
(1) Grants
(A) In general
As part of the Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program established under
(B) Definitions
The terms used in this section have the meanings given the terms in
(2) Fellowships
Fellowships under this section shall be available only to—
(A) science, technology, engineering, or mathematics professionals, including retiring professionals in those fields, who shall be referred to as "National Science Foundation Teaching Fellows" and who, in the first year of the fellowship, are enrolled in a master's degree program leading to teacher certification or licensing; and
(B) mathematics and science teachers, who shall be referred to as "National Science Foundation Master Teaching Fellows" and who possess a master's or bachelor's degree in their field.
(b) Eligibility
In order to be eligible to receive a grant under this section, an eligible entity shall enter into a partnership that shall include—
(1) a department within an institution of higher education participating in the partnership that provides an advanced program of study in mathematics and science;
(2)(A) a school or department within an institution of higher education participating in the partnership that provides a teacher preparation program; or
(B) a 2-year institution of higher education that has a teacher preparation offering or a dual enrollment program with an institution of higher education participating in the partnership;
(3) not less than 1 high need local educational agency and a public school or a consortium of public schools served by the agency; and
(4) 1 or more nonprofit organizations that have a demonstrated record of capacity to provide expertise or support to meet the purposes of this section.
(c) Use of grants
Grants awarded under this section shall be used by the eligible entity (and participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) to develop and implement a program for National Science Foundation Teaching Fellows or National Science Foundation Master Teaching Fellows, through—
(1) administering fellowships in accordance with this section, including providing the teaching fellowship salary supplements described in subsection (f);
(2) in the case of National Science Foundation Teaching Fellowships—
(A) offering academic courses and clinical teaching experiences leading to a master's degree and designed to prepare individuals to teach in elementary schools and secondary schools, including such preparation as is necessary to meet the requirements for certification or licensing; and
(B) offering programs both during and after matriculation in the program for which the fellowship is received to enable fellows to become highly effective mathematics and science teachers, including mentoring, training, induction, and professional development activities, to fulfill the service requirements of this section, including the requirements of subsection (e), and to exchange ideas with others in their fields;
(3) in the case of National Science Foundation Master Teaching Fellowships for teachers with master's degrees in their field—
(A) offering academic courses and leadership training to prepare individuals to become master teachers in elementary schools and secondary schools; and
(B) offering programs both during and after matriculation in the program for which the fellowship is received to enable fellows to become highly effective mathematics and science teachers, including mentoring, training, induction, and professional development activities, to fulfill the service requirements of this section, including the requirements of subsection (e), and to exchange ideas with others in their fields; and
(4) in the case of National Science Foundation Master Teaching Fellowships for teachers with bachelor's degrees in their field and working toward a master's degree—
(A) offering academic courses leading to a master's degree and leadership training to prepare individuals to become master teachers in elementary and secondary schools;
(B) offering programs both during and after matriculation in the program for which the fellowship is received to enable fellows to become highly effective mathematics and science teachers, including mentoring, training, induction, and professional development activities, to fulfill the service requirements of this section, including the requirements of subsection (e), and to exchange ideas with others in their fields; and
(C) providing internship opportunities for fellows, including research experiences at national laboratories and NASA Centers.
(d) Selection process
(1) Merit review
Grants shall be awarded under this section on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis.
(2) Applications
An eligible entity desiring a grant under this section shall submit an application to the Director at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director may require. The application shall include, at a minimum—
(A) in the case of an applicant that is submitting an application on behalf of a consortium of institutions of higher education, a description of the participating institutions of higher education and the roles and responsibilities of each such institution;
(B) a description of the program that the applicant intends to operate, including the number of fellowships the applicant intends to award, the type of activities proposed for the recruitment of students to the program, and the amount of the teaching fellowship salary supplements to be provided in accordance with subsection (f);
(C) evidence that the applicant has the capability to administer the program in accordance with the provisions of this section, which may include a description of any existing programs at the applicant eligible entity (and participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) that are targeted to the education of mathematics and science teachers and the number of teachers graduated annually from such programs;
(D) in the case of National Science Foundation Teaching Fellowships, a description of—
(i) the selection process that will be used in awarding fellowships, including a description of the rigorous measures to be used, including the rigorous, nationally recognized assessments to be used, in order to determine whether individuals applying for fellowships have advanced content knowledge of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics;
(ii) the academic courses and clinical teaching experiences described in subsection (c)(2)(A), including—
(I) a description of an educational program that will enable a student to obtain a master's degree and teacher certification or licensing within 1 year; and
(II) evidence of agreements between the applicant and the schools or local educational agencies that are identified as the locations at which clinical teaching experiences will occur;
(iii) a description of the programs described in subsection (c)(2)(B), including activities to assist individuals in fulfilling their service requirements under this section;
(E) evidence that the eligible entity will provide the teaching supplements required under subsection (f); and
(F) a description of the process the applicant will use to fulfill the requirements of
(3) Criteria
In evaluating the applications submitted under paragraph (2), the Director shall consider, at a minimum—
(A) the ability of the applicant (and participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) to effectively carry out the program and to meet the requirements of subsection (f);
(B) the extent to which the mathematics, science, or engineering faculty and the education faculty at the eligible entity (and participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) have worked or will work collaboratively to design new or revised curricula that recognizes the specialized pedagogy required to teach science, technology, engineering, and mathematics effectively in elementary schools and secondary schools;
(C) the extent to which the applicant (and participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) is committed to making the program a central organizational focus;
(D) the degree to which the proposed programming will enable participants to become highly effective mathematics and science teachers and prepare such participants to assume leadership roles in their schools, in addition to their regular classroom duties, including serving as mentor or master teachers, developing curriculum, and assisting in the development and implementation of professional development activities;
(E) the number and quality of the individuals that will be served by the program; and
(F) in the case of the National Science Foundation Teaching Fellowship, the ability of the applicant (and participating institutions of higher education of the consortium, if applicable) to recruit individuals who would otherwise not pursue a career in teaching, individuals identified in
(4) Selection of fellows
(A) In general
Individuals shall be selected to receive fellowships under this section primarily on the basis of—
(i) professional achievement;
(ii) academic merit;
(iii) content knowledge of science, technology, engineering, or mathematics, as demonstrated by their performance on an assessment in accordance with paragraph (2)(D)(i); and
(iv) in the case of National Science Foundation Master Teaching Fellows, demonstrated success in improving student academic achievement in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
(B) Promoting participation of certain individuals
Among individuals demonstrating equivalent qualifications, consideration may be given to the goal of promoting the participation of individuals identified in
(e) Duties of National Science Foundation Teaching Fellows and Master Teaching Fellows
A National Science Foundation Teaching Fellow or a National Science Foundation Master Teaching Fellow, while fulfilling the service obligation under subsection (h) and in addition to regular classroom activities, shall take on a leadership role within the school or local educational agency in which the fellow is employed, as defined by the partnership according to such fellow's expertise, including serving as a mentor or master teacher, developing curricula, and assisting in the development and implementation of professional development activities.
(f) Teaching fellowship salary supplements
(1) In general
An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section shall provide salary supplements to individuals who participate in the program under this section during the period of their service obligation under subsection (h). A local educational agency through which the service obligation is fulfilled shall agree not to reduce the base salary normally paid to an individual solely because such individual receives a salary supplement under this subsection.
(2) Amount and duration
(A) Amount
Salary supplements provided under paragraph (1) shall be not less than $10,000 per year, except that, in the case of a National Science Foundation Teaching Fellow, while enrolled in the master's degree program as described in subsection (c)(2)(A), such fellow shall receive not more than the cost of attendance at such fellow's institution.
(B) Support while enrolled in master's degree program
A National Science Foundation Teaching Fellow may receive a maximum of 1 year of fellowship support while enrolled in a master's degree program as described in subsection (c)(2)(A), except that if such fellow is enrolled in a part-time program, such amount shall be prorated according to the length of the program.
(C) Duration of support
An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section shall provide teaching fellowship salary supplements through the period of the fellow's service obligation under subsection (h).
(g) Support for Master Teaching Fellows while enrolled in a master's degree program
A National Science Foundation Master Teacher Fellow may receive a maximum of 1 year of fellowship support while enrolled in a master's degree program as described in subsection (c)(4)(A), except that if such fellow is enrolled in a part-time program, such amount shall be prorated according to the length of the program.
(h) Service obligation
An individual awarded a fellowship under this section shall serve as a mathematics or science teacher in an elementary school or secondary school served by a high need local educational agency for—
(1) in the case of a National Science Foundation Teaching Fellow, 4 years, to be fulfilled within 6 years of completing the master's program described in subsection (c)(2)(A); and
(2) in the case of a National Science Foundation Master Teaching Fellow, 5 years, to be fulfilled within 7 years of the start of participation in the program under subsection (c)(3).
(i) Matching requirement
(1) In general
An eligible entity receiving a grant under this section shall provide, from non-Federal sources, to carry out the activities supported by the grant—
(A) in the case of grants in an amount of less than $1,500,000, an amount equal to at least 30 percent of the amount of the grant, at least one half of which shall be in cash; and
(B) in the case of grants in an amount of $1,500,000 or more, an amount equal to at least 50 percent of the amount of the grant, at least one half of which shall be in cash.
(2) Waiver
The Director may waive all or part of the matching requirement described in paragraph (1) for any fiscal year for an eligible entity receiving a grant under this section, if the Director determines that applying the matching requirement would result in serious hardship or inability to carry out the authorized activities described in this section.
(j) Conditions of support; collection for noncompliance; failure to complete service obligation; data collection
(1) In general
Except as provided in paragraph (2), subsections (e), (f), (g), and (h) of
(2) Amount of repayment
If a circumstance described in subparagraph (D) or (E) of
(A) for a National Science Foundation Teaching Fellow, the total amount of fellowship award received by the individual under this section while enrolled in the master's degree program, reduced by one-fourth of the total amount for each year of service completed, plus one-half of the total teaching fellowship salary supplements received by such individual under this section, shall be repaid or such amount shall be treated as a loan to be repaid in accordance with
(B) for a National Science Foundation Master Teaching Fellow, the total amount of teaching fellowship salary supplements received by the individual under this section, reduced by one-half, shall be repaid or such amount shall be treated as a loan to be repaid in accordance with
(k) STEM teacher service and retention
(1) In general
The Director shall develop and implement practices for increasing the proportion of individuals receiving fellowships under this section who—
(A) fulfill the service obligation required under subsection (h); and
(B) remain in the teaching profession in a high need local educational agency beyond the service obligation.
(2) Practices
The practices described under paragraph (1) may include—
(A) partnering with nonprofit or professional associations or with other government entities to provide individuals receiving fellowships under this section with opportunities for professional development, including mentorship programs that pair those individuals with currently employed and recently retired science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or computer science professionals;
(B) increasing recruitment from high need districts;
(C) establishing a system to better collect, track, and respond to data on the career decisions of individuals receiving fellowships under this section;
(D) conducting research to better understand factors relevant to teacher service and retention, including factors specifically impacting the retention of teachers who are individuals identified in
(E) conducting pilot programs to improve teacher service and retention.
(
Codification
Section 7030 of
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
2020—Subsec. (d)(3)(F).
Subsec. (d)(4)(B).
2018—Subsec. (c)(4)(C).
2017—Subsec. (k).
2015—Subsec. (a)(2)(B).
Subsec. (c)(3).
Subsec. (c)(4).
Subsecs. (e), (f).
Subsecs. (g) to (j).
2011—Subsec. (a)(2)(A).
Subsec. (h)(1).
Effective Date of 2018 Amendment
Amendment by
§1862n–2. Establishment of centers for research on mathematics and science learning and education improvement
(a) Establishment
(1) In general
(A) The Director shall award grants to institutions of higher education or eligible nonprofit organizations (or consortia thereof) to establish multidisciplinary Centers for Research on Learning and Education Improvement.
(B) Grants shall be awarded under this paragraph on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis.
(2) Purpose
The purpose of the Centers shall be to conduct and evaluate research in cognitive science, education, and related fields and to develop ways in which the results of such research can be applied in elementary school and secondary school classrooms to improve the teaching of mathematics and science.
(3) Focus
(A) Each Center shall be focused on a different challenge faced by elementary school or secondary school teachers of mathematics and science. In determining the research focus of the Centers, the Director shall consult with the National Academy of Sciences and the Secretary of Education and take into account the extent to which other Federal programs support research on similar questions.
(B) The proposal solicitation issued by the Director shall state the focus of each Center and applicants shall apply for designation as a specific Center.
(C) At least one Center shall focus on developing ways in which the results of research described in paragraph (2) can be applied, duplicated, and scaled up for use in low-performing elementary schools and secondary schools to improve the teaching and student achievement levels in mathematics and science.
(D) To the extent practicable and relevant to its focus, every Center shall include, as part of its research, work designed to quantitatively assess and improve the ways that information technology is used in the teaching of mathematics and science.
(b) Selection process
(1) Application
An institution of higher education or an eligible nonprofit organization (or a consortium thereof) seeking funding under this section shall submit an application to the Director at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director may require. The application shall include, at a minimum, a description of—
(A) the initial research projects that will be undertaken by the Center and the process by which new projects will be identified;
(B) how the Center will work with other research institutions and schools to broaden the national research agenda on learning and teaching;
(C) how the Center will promote active collaboration among physical, biological, and social science researchers;
(D) how the Center will promote active participation by elementary and secondary mathematics and science teachers and administrators; and
(E) how the results of the Center's research can be incorporated into educational practices, and how the Center will assess the success of those practices.
(2) Review of applications
In evaluating the applications submitted under paragraph (1), the Director shall consider, at a minimum—
(A) the ability of the applicant to effectively carry out the research program, including the activities described in paragraph (1)(E);
(B) the experience of the applicant in conducting research on the science of teaching and learning and the capacity of the applicant to foster new multidisciplinary collaborations;
(C) the capacity of the applicant to attract elementary school and secondary school teachers from a diverse array of schools, and with diverse professional experiences, for participation in Center activities; and
(D) the capacity of the applicant to attract and provide adequate support for graduate students to pursue research at the intersection of educational practice and basic research on human cognition and learning.
(3) Awards
The Director shall ensure, to the extent practicable, that the Centers funded under this section conduct research and develop educational practices designed to improve the educational performance of a broad range of students, including individuals identified in
(c) Annual conference
The Director shall convene an annual meeting of the Centers to foster collaboration among the Centers and to further disseminate the results of the Centers' activities.
(d) Coordination
The Director shall coordinate with the Secretary of Education in—
(1) disseminating the results of the research conducted pursuant to grants awarded under this section to elementary school teachers and secondary school teachers; and
(2) providing programming, guidance, and support to ensure that such teachers—
(A) understand the implications of the research disseminated under paragraph (1) for classroom practice; and
(B) can use the research to improve such teachers' performance in the classroom.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
2007—Subsec. (a)(1)(A).
Subsec. (b)(1).
Funding for Centers
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 4 of
§1862n–3. Duplication of programs
(a) In general
The Director shall review the education programs of the Foundation that are in operation as of December 19, 2002, to determine whether any of such programs duplicate the programs authorized under this Act.
(b) Implementation
As programs authorized under this Act are implemented, the Director shall—
(1) terminate any duplicative program being carried out by the Foundation or merge the duplicative program into a program authorized under this Act; and
(2) not establish any new program that duplicates a program that has been implemented pursuant to this Act.
(c) Report
(1) Review
The Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall review the education programs of the Foundation to ensure compliance with the provisions of this section.
(2) Submission
Not later than 1 year after December 19, 2002, and annually thereafter as part of the annual Office of Science and Technology Policy's budget submission to Congress, the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy shall complete a report on the review carried out under this subsection and shall submit the report to the Committee on Science and the Committee on Appropriations of the House of Representatives, and to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions, and the Committee on Appropriations of the Senate.
(
References in Text
This Act, referred to in subsecs. (a) and (b), is
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Change of Name
Committee on Science of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Tenth Congress, Jan. 5, 2007. Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, Jan. 5, 2011.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 4 of
§1862n–4. Major research equipment and facilities construction plan
(a) Prioritization of proposed major research equipment and facilities construction
(1) Development of priorities
The Director shall—
(A) develop a list indicating by number the relative priority for funding under the major research equipment and facilities construction account that the Director assigns to each project the Board has approved for inclusion in a future budget request; and
(B) submit the list described in subparagraph (A) to the Board for approval.
(2) Criteria
The Director shall include in the criteria for developing the list under paragraph (1) the readiness of plans for construction and operation, including confidence in the estimates of the full life-cycle cost (as defined in section 2 of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1998 (
(3) Updates
The Director shall update the list prepared under paragraph (1) each time the Board approves a new project that would receive funding under the major research equipment and facilities construction account and periodically submit any updated list to the Board for approval.
(b) Project management
No national research facility project funded under the major research equipment and facilities construction account shall be managed by an individual whose appointment to the Foundation is temporary.
(c) Board approval of major research equipment and facilities projects
The Board shall explicitly approve any project to be funded out of the major research equipment and facilities construction account before any funds may be obligated from such account for such project.
(
References in Text
Section 2 of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 1998, referred to in subsec. (a)(2), is section 2 of
Codification
Section is comprised of section 14 of
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
2017—Subsec. (a).
Subsec. (b).
Subsecs. (c), (d).
Subsec. (e).
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 4 of
§1862n–5. Board meetings; audits; reports; scholarship eligibility
(a) Board meetings
(1) Omitted
(2) Open meetings
To ensure transparency of the Board's entire decision-making process, including deliberations on Board business occurring within its various subdivisions, the Board and all of its committees, subcommittees, and task forces (and any other entity consisting of members of the Board and reporting to the Board) shall be subject to
(3) Compliance audit
The Inspector General of the Foundation shall conduct an audit every three years of the compliance by the Board with the requirements described in paragraph (2). The audit shall examine the proposed and actual content of closed meetings and determine whether the closure of the meetings was consistent with
(4) Report
Not later than February 15 of every third year, the Inspector General of the Foundation shall transmit to the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate the audit required under paragraph (3) along with recommendations for corrective actions that need to be taken to achieve fuller compliance with the requirements described in paragraph (2), and recommendations on how to ensure public access to the Board's deliberations.
(5) Materials relating to closed portions of meetings
To facilitate the audit required under paragraph (3) of this subsection, the Office of the National Science Board shall maintain the General Counsel's certificate, the presiding officer's statement, and a transcript or recording of any closed meeting, for at least 3 years after such meeting.
(b), (c) Omitted
(d) Scholarship eligibility
The Director shall not exclude part-time students from eligibility for scholarships under the Computer Science, Engineering, and Mathematics Scholarship program.
(
Codification
Section is comprised of section 15 of
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
2011—Subsec. (a)(2).
2007—Subsec. (a)(3).
Subsec. (a)(4).
Subsec. (a)(5).
Change of Name
Committee on Science of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Tenth Congress, Jan. 5, 2007. Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, Jan. 5, 2011.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 4 of
§1862n–6. Undergraduate education reform
(a) In general
The Director shall award grants, on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis, to institutions of higher education to expand previously implemented reforms of undergraduate science, mathematics, engineering, or technology education that have been demonstrated to have been successful in increasing the number and quality of students studying toward and completing associate's or baccalaureate degrees in science, mathematics, engineering, or technology.
(b) Uses of funds
Activities supported by grants under this section may include—
(1) expansion of successful reform efforts beyond a single course or group of courses to achieve reform within an entire academic unit;
(2) expansion of successful reform efforts beyond a single academic unit to other science, mathematics, engineering, or technology academic units within an institution;
(3) creation of multidisciplinary courses or programs that formalize collaborations for the purpose of improved student instruction and research in science, mathematics, engineering, and technology;
(4) expansion of undergraduate research opportunities beyond a particular laboratory, course, or academic unit to engage multiple academic units in providing multidisciplinary research opportunities for undergraduate students;
(5) expansion of innovative tutoring or mentoring programs proven to enhance student recruitment or persistence to degree completion in science, mathematics, engineering, or technology;
(6) improvement of undergraduate science, mathematics, engineering, and technology education for nonmajors, including education majors; and
(7) implementation of technology-driven reform efforts, including the installation of technology to facilitate such reform, that directly impact undergraduate science, mathematics, engineering, or technology instruction or research experiences.
(c) Selection process
(1) Applications
An institution of higher education seeking a grant under this section shall submit an application to the Director at such time, in such manner, and containing such information as the Director may require. The application shall include, at a minimum—
(A) a description of the proposed reform effort;
(B) a description of the previously implemented reform effort that will serve as the basis for the proposed reform effort and evidence of success of that previous effort, including data on student recruitment, persistence to degree completion, and academic achievement;
(C) evidence of active participation in the proposed project by individuals who were central to the success of the previously implemented reform effort; and
(D) evidence of institutional support for, and commitment to, the proposed reform effort, including a description of existing or planned institutional policies and practices regarding faculty hiring, promotion, tenure, and teaching assignment that reward faculty contributions to undergraduate education equal to, or greater than, scholarly scientific research.
(2) Review of applications
In evaluating applications submitted under paragraph (1), the Director shall consider at a minimum—
(A) the evidence of past success in implementing undergraduate education reform and the likelihood of success in undertaking the proposed expanded effort;
(B) the extent to which the faculty, staff, and administrators of the institution are committed to making the proposed institutional reform a priority of the participating academic unit;
(C) the degree to which the proposed reform will contribute to change in institutional culture and policy such that a greater value is placed on faculty engagement in undergraduate education, as evidenced through promotion and tenure policies; and
(D) the likelihood that the institution will sustain or expand the reform beyond the period of the grant.
(3) Grant distribution
The Director shall ensure, to the extent practicable, that grants awarded under this section are made to a variety of types of institutions of higher education.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 4 of
§1862n–7. Reports
(a) Grant size and duration
Not later than 6 months after December 19, 2002, the Director shall transmit to the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate a report describing the impact that increasing the average grant size and duration would have on minority-serving institutions and on institutions located in States where the Foundation's Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (established under
(b) Faculty
Not later than 3 months after December 19, 2002, the Director shall enter into an arrangement with the National Academy of Sciences to assess gender differences in the careers of science and engineering faculty. This study shall build on the Academy's work on gender differences in the carriers of doctoral scientists and engineers and examine issues such as faculty hiring, promotion, tenure, and allocation of resources including laboratory space. Upon completion, the results of this study shall be transmitted to the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate.
(c) Grant funding
Not later than 3 months after December 19, 2002, the Director shall enter into an agreement with an appropriate party to assess gender differences in the distribution of external Federal research and development funding. This study shall examine differences in amounts requested and awarded, by gender, in major Federal external grant programs. Upon completion, the results of this study shall be transmitted to the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate.
(d) Study of broadband network access for schools and libraries
(1) Report to Congress
The Director shall conduct a study of the issues described in paragraph (3), and not later than 1 year after December 19, 2002, transmit to the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate a report including recommendations to address those issues. Such report shall be updated annually for 4 additional years.
(2) Consultation
In preparing the reports under paragraph (1), the Director shall consult with Federal agencies and educational entities as the Director considers appropriate.
(3) Issues to be addressed
The reports shall—
(A) identify the availability of high-speed, large bandwidth capacity access to different demographic groups served by elementary schools, secondary schools, and libraries in the United States;
(B) identify how the provision of high-speed, large bandwidth capacity access to the Internet to such schools and libraries can be effectively utilized within each school and library;
(C) consider the effect that specific or regional circumstances may have on the ability of such institutions to acquire high-speed, large bandwidth capacity access to achieve universal connectivity as an effective tool in the education process; and
(D) include options and recommendations to address the challenges and issues identified in the reports.
(e) Minority-serving institution funding
(1) Annual reporting required
The Director shall submit an annual report, along with the President's annual budget request, to the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate on the amount of funding awarded by the Foundation to minority-serving institutions, including funding received as members of consortia. The report shall include information on such funding to minority-serving institutions—
(A) expressed as a percentage of funding to all institutions of higher education for each appropriations account within the Foundation's budget; and
(B) for the preceding 10 years.
(2) Report on ways to improve funding
Within one year after December 19, 2002, the Director shall submit to the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate a report on recommendations on how the Foundation can improve funding to minority-serving institutions.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Change of Name
Committee on Science of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Tenth Congress, Jan. 5, 2007. Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, Jan. 5, 2011.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 4 of
§1862n–8. Evaluations
(a) Education
(1) In general
The Director, through the Research, Evaluation and Communication Division of the Education and Human Resources Directorate of the Foundation, shall evaluate the effectiveness of all undergraduate science, mathematics, engineering, or technology education activities supported by the Foundation in increasing the number and quality of students, including individuals identified in
(A) the number of students enrolled in undergraduate science, mathematics, engineering, and technology programs;
(B) student academic achievement, including quantifiable measurements of students' mastery of content and skills;
(C) persistence to degree completion, including students who transfer from science, mathematics, engineering, and technology programs to programs in other academic disciplines; and
(D) placement during the first year after degree completion in post-graduate education or career pathways.
(2) Assessment benchmarks and tools
The Director, through the Research, Evaluation and Communication Division of the Education and Human Resources Directorate of the Foundation, shall establish a common set of assessment benchmarks and tools, and shall enable every Foundation-sponsored project to incorporate the use of these benchmarks and tools in their project-based assessment activities.
(3) Reports to Congress
Not later than 3 years after December 19, 2002, and once every 3 years thereafter, the Director shall transmit to the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate a report containing the results of evaluations under paragraph (1).
(b) Awards
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Act, the Director shall annually evaluate a random sample of grants, contracts, or other awards made pursuant to this Act.
(c) Dissemination
The Director shall—
(1) provide for the dissemination of the results of the evaluations conducted pursuant to this section to the public; and
(2) provide notice to the public that such evaluations are available.
(
References in Text
This Act, referred to in subsec. (b), is
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Change of Name
Committee on Science of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Tenth Congress, Jan. 5, 2007. Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, Jan. 5, 2011.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 4 of
§1862n–9. Astronomy and Astrophysics Advisory Committee
(a) Establishment
The Foundation, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the Department of Energy shall jointly establish an Astronomy and Astrophysics Advisory Committee (in this section referred to as the "Advisory Committee").
(b) Duties
The Advisory Committee shall—
(1) assess, and make recommendations regarding, the coordination of astronomy and astrophysics programs of the Foundation, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the Department of Energy;
(2) assess, and make recommendations regarding, the status of the activities of the Foundation, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, and the Department of Energy as they relate to the recommendations contained in the National Research Council's 2001 report entitled "Astronomy and Astrophysics in the New Millennium", and the recommendations contained in subsequent National Research Council reports of a similar nature; and
(3) not later than March 15 of each year, transmit a report to the Director, the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, the Secretary of Energy, the Committee on Science of the House of Representatives, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation of the Senate, and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate on the Advisory Committee's findings and recommendations under paragraphs (1) and (2).
(c) Membership
The Advisory Committee shall consist of 13 members, none of whom shall be a Federal employee, including—
(1) 4 members selected by the Director;
(2) 4 members selected by the Administrator of the National Aeronautics and Space Administration;
(3) 3 members selected by the Secretary of Energy; and
(4) 2 members selected by the Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy.
(d) Selection process
Initial selections under subsection (c) shall be made within 3 months after December 19, 2002. Vacancies shall be filled in the same manner as provided in subsection (c).
(e) Chairperson
The Advisory Committee shall select a chairperson from among its members.
(f) Coordination
The Advisory Committee shall coordinate with other Federal advisory committees that advise Federal agencies that engage in related research activities.
(g) Compensation
The members of the Advisory Committee shall serve without compensation, but shall receive travel expenses, including per diem in lieu of subsistence, in accordance with
(h) Meetings
The Advisory Committee shall convene, in person or by electronic means, at least 4 times a year.
(i) Quorum
A majority of the members serving on the Advisory Committee shall constitute a quorum for purposes of conducting the business of the Advisory Committee.
(j) Duration
Section 14 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act shall not apply to the Advisory Committee.
(
References in Text
Section 14 of the Federal Advisory Committee Act, referred to in subsec. (j), is section 14 of
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
2004—Subsecs. (a), (b)(1), (2).
Subsec. (b)(3).
Subsec. (c)(1), (2).
Subsec. (c)(3), (4).
Subsec. (f).
Change of Name
Committee on Science of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 6, One Hundred Tenth Congress, Jan. 5, 2007. Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, Jan. 5, 2011.
Effective Date of 2004 Amendment
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 4 of
§1862n–10. Minority-serving institutions undergraduate program
(a) In general
The Director is authorized to establish a new program to award grants on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis to Hispanic-serving institutions, Alaska Native-serving institutions, Native Hawaiian-serving institutions, and other institutions of higher education serving a substantial number of minority students to enhance the quality of undergraduate science, mathematics, and engineering education at such institutions and to increase the retention and graduation rates of students pursuing associate's or baccalaureate degrees in science, mathematics, engineering, or technology.
(b) Program components
Grants awarded under this section shall support—
(1) activities to improve courses and curriculum in science, mathematics, and engineering;
(2) faculty development;
(3) stipends for undergraduate students participating in research; and
(4) other activities consistent with subsection (a), as determined by the Director.
(c) Program coordination
This program shall be coordinated with and in addition to the ongoing Historically Black Colleges and Universities Undergraduate Program and the Tribal Colleges and Universities Program.
(d) Instrumentation
Funding for instrumentation is an allowed use of grants awarded under this section and under the ongoing Historically Black Colleges and Universities Undergraduate Program and the Tribal Colleges and Universities Program.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2002, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 4 of
§1862o. Postdoctoral research fellows
(a) Mentoring
The Director shall require that all grant applications that include funding to support postdoctoral researchers include a description of the mentoring activities that will be provided for such individuals, and shall ensure that this part of the application is evaluated under the Foundation's broader impacts merit review criterion. Mentoring activities may include career counseling, training in preparing grant applications, guidance on ways to improve teaching skills, and training in research ethics.
(b) Reports
The Director shall require that annual reports and the final report for research grants that include funding to support postdoctoral researchers include a description of the mentoring activities provided to such researchers.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Reaffirmation of the Merit-Review Process of the National Science Foundation
"(1) alter or modify its merit-review system or peer-review process; or
"(2) exclude the awarding of any proposal by means of the merit-review or peer-review process."
Curricula
Definitions
"(1)
"(2)
"(3)
"(4)
"(5)
"(6)
"(7)
§1862o–1. Responsible conduct of research
The Director shall require that each institution that applies for financial assistance from the Foundation for science and engineering research or education describe in its grant proposal a plan to provide appropriate training and oversight in the responsible and ethical conduct of research to undergraduate students, graduate students, and postdoctoral researchers participating in the proposed research project.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–2. Reporting of research results
The Director shall ensure that all final project reports and citations of published research documents resulting from research funded, in whole or in part, by the Foundation, are made available to the public in a timely manner and in electronic form through the Foundation's Web site.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–3. Sharing research results
An investigator supported under a Foundation award, whom the Director determines has failed to comply with the provisions of section 734 of the Foundation Grant Policy Manual, shall be ineligible for a future award under any Foundation supported program or activity. The Director may restore the eligibility of such an investigator on the basis of the investigator's subsequent compliance with the provisions of section 734 of the Foundation Grant Policy Manual and with such other terms and conditions as the Director may impose.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–4. Funding for successful science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education programs
(a) Evaluation of programs
The Director shall, on an annual basis, evaluate all of the Foundation's grants that are scheduled to expire within 1 year and—
(1) that have the primary purpose of meeting the objectives of the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunity Act (
(2) that have the primary purpose of providing teacher professional development.
(b) Continuation of funding
For grants that are identified under subsection (a) and that are determined by the Director to be successful in meeting the objectives of the initial grant solicitation, the Director may extend the duration of those grants for not more than 3 additional years beyond their scheduled expiration without the requirement for a recompetition.
(
References in Text
The Science and Engineering Equal Opportunity Act, referred to in subsec. (a)(1), probably means the Science and Engineering Equal Opportunities Act, which is Part B (§31 et seq.) of
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
2017—Subsec. (c).
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–5. Meeting critical national science needs
(a) In general
In addition to any other criteria, the Director shall include consideration of the degree to which awards and research activities that otherwise qualify for support by the Foundation may assist in meeting critical national needs in innovation, competitiveness, safety and security, the physical and natural sciences, technology, engineering, social sciences, and mathematics.
(b) Priority treatment
The Director shall give priority in the selection of awards and the allocation of Foundation resources to proposed research activities, and grants funded under the Foundation's Research and Related Activities Account, that can be expected to make contributions in physical or natural science, technology, engineering, social sciences, or mathematics, or that enhance competitiveness, innovation, or safety and security in the United States.
(c) Limitation
Nothing in this section shall be construed to restrict or bias the grant selection process against funding other areas of research deemed by the Foundation to be consistent with its mandate nor to change the core mission of the Foundation.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–6. Research on innovation and inventiveness
In carrying out its research programs on science policy and on the science of learning, the Foundation may support research on the process of innovation and the teaching of inventiveness.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–7. Cyberinfrastructure
In order to continue and expand efforts to ensure that research institutions throughout the Nation can fully participate in research programs of the Foundation and collaborate with colleagues throughout the Nation, the Director, not later than 180 days after August 9, 2007, shall develop and publish a plan that—
(1) describes the current status of broadband access for scientific research purposes at institutions in EPSCoR-eligible States, at institutions in rural areas, and at minority serving institutions; and
(2) outlines actions that can be taken to ensure that such connections are available to enable participation in those Foundation programs that rely heavily on high-speed networking and collaborations across institutions and regions.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–8. Pilot program of grants for new investigators
(a) In general
The Director shall carry out a pilot program to award 1-year grants to individuals to assist them in improving research proposals that were previously submitted to the Foundation but not selected for funding.
(b) Eligibility
To be eligible to receive a grant under this section, an individual—
(1) may not have previously received funding as the principal investigator of a research grant from the Foundation; and
(2) shall have submitted a proposal to the Foundation, which may include a proposal submitted to the Research in Undergraduate Institutions program, that was rated excellent under the Foundation's competitive merit review process.
(c) Selection process
The Director shall make awards under this section based on the advice of the program officers of the Foundation.
(d) Use of funds
Grants awarded under this section shall be used to enable an individual to resubmit an updated research proposal for review by the Foundation through the agency's competitive merit review process. Uses of funds made available under this section may include the generation of new data and the performance of additional analysis.
(e) Program administration
The Director shall carry out this section through the Small Grants for Exploratory Research program.
(f) National Science Board review
The Board shall conduct a review and assessment of the pilot program under this section, including the number of new investigators funded, the distribution of awards by type of institution of higher education, and the success rate upon resubmittal of proposals by new investigators funded through such pilot program. Not later than 3 years after August 9, 2007, the Board shall summarize its findings and any recommendations regarding changes to, the termination of, or the continuation of the pilot program in a report to the Committee on Science and Technology of the House of Representatives and the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Change of Name
Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, Jan. 5, 2011.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–9. Broader impacts merit review criterion
(a) In general
Among the types of activities that the Foundation shall consider as appropriate for meeting the requirements of its broader impacts criterion for the evaluation of research proposals are partnerships between academic researchers and industrial scientists and engineers that address research areas identified as having high importance for future national economic competitiveness, such as nanotechnology.
(b) Report on broader impacts criterion
Not later than 1 year after August 9, 2007, the Director shall transmit to Congress a report on the impact of the broader impacts grant criterion used by the Foundation. The report shall—
(1) identify the criteria that each division and directorate of the Foundation uses to evaluate the broader impacts aspects of research proposals;
(2) provide a breakdown of the types of activities by division that awardees have proposed to carry out to meet the broader impacts criterion;
(3) provide any evaluations performed by the Foundation to assess the degree to which the broader impacts aspects of research proposals were carried out and how effective they have been at meeting the goals described in the research proposals;
(4) describe what national goals, such as improving undergraduate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education, improving kindergarten through grade 12 science and mathematics education, promoting university-industry collaboration, and broadening participation of underrepresented groups, the broader impacts criterion is best suited to promote; and
(5) describe what steps the Foundation is taking and should take to use the broader impacts criterion to improve undergraduate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics education.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–10. Advanced information and communications technology research
(1) In general
As part of the Program described in title I of the High-Performance Computing Act of 1991 (
(A) affordable broadband access, including wireless technologies;
(B) network security and reliability;
(C) communications interoperability;
(D) networking protocols and architectures, including resilience to outages or attacks;
(E) trusted software;
(F) privacy;
(G) nanoelectronics for communications applications;
(H) low-power communications electronics;
(I) implementation of equitable access to national advanced fiber optic research and educational networks in noncontiguous States; and
(J) such other related areas as the Director finds appropriate.
(2) Centers
The Director shall award multiyear grants, subject to the availability of appropriations and on a merit-reviewed competitive basis, to institutions of higher education, nonprofit research institutions affiliated with institutions of higher education, or consortia of either type of institution to establish multidisciplinary Centers for Communications Research. The purpose of the Centers shall be to generate innovative approaches to problems in information and communications technology research, including the research areas described in paragraph (1). Institutions of higher education, nonprofit research institutions affiliated with institutions of higher education, or consortia receiving such grants may partner with 1 or more government laboratories, for-profit entities, or other institutions of higher education or nonprofit research institutions.
(3) Funding allocation
The Director shall increase funding for the basic research activities described in paragraph (1), which shall include support for the Centers described in paragraph (2), in proportion to the increase in the total amount appropriated to the Foundation for research and related activities for the fiscal years 2008 through 2010.
(4) Report to Congress
The Director shall transmit to Congress, as part of the President's annual budget submission under
(
References in Text
The High-Performance Computing Act of 1991, referred to in par. (1), is
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–11. Repealed. Pub. L. 114–329, title II, §204(a)(3)(B), Jan. 6, 2017, 130 Stat. 2999
Section,
§1862o–12. Hispanic-serving institutions undergraduate program
(a) In general
The Director shall award grants on a competitive, merit-reviewed basis to Hispanic-serving institutions (as defined in
(b) Program components
Grants awarded under this section shall support—
(1) activities to improve courses and curriculum in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics;
(2) faculty development;
(3) stipends for undergraduate students participating in research; and
(4) other activities consistent with subsection (a), as determined by the Director.
(c) Instrumentation
Funding for instrumentation is an allowed use of grants awarded under this section.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Amendments
2017—Subsec. (a).
Savings Provision
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–13. Professional science master's degree programs
(a) Clearinghouse
(1) Development
The Director shall establish a clearinghouse, in collaboration with 4-year institutions of higher education (including applicable graduate schools and academic departments), and industries and Federal agencies that employ science-trained personnel, to share program elements used in successful professional science master's degree programs and other advanced degree programs related to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
(2) Availability
The Director shall make the clearinghouse of program elements developed under paragraph (1) available to institutions of higher education that are developing professional science master's degree programs.
(b) Programs
(1) Programs authorized
The Director shall award grants to 4-year institutions of higher education to facilitate the institutions' creation or improvement of professional science master's degree programs that may include linkages between institutions of higher education and industries that employ science-trained personnel, with an emphasis on practical training and preparation for the workforce in high-need fields.
(2) Application
A 4-year institution of higher education desiring a grant under this section shall submit an application to the Director at such time, in such manner, and accompanied by such information as the Director may require. The application shall include—
(A) a description of the professional science master's degree program that the institution of higher education will implement;
(B) a description of how the professional science master's degree program at the institution of higher education will produce individuals for the workforce in high-need fields;
(C) the amount of funding from non-Federal sources, including from private industries, that the institution of higher education shall use to support the professional science master's degree program; and
(D) an assurance that the institution of higher education shall encourage students in the professional science master's degree program to apply for all forms of Federal assistance available to such students, including applicable graduate fellowships and student financial assistance under titles IV and VII of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (
(3) Preferences
The Director shall give preference in making awards to 4-year institutions of higher education seeking Federal funding to create or improve professional science master's degree programs, to those applicants—
(A) located in States with low percentages of citizens with graduate or professional degrees, as determined by the Bureau of the Census, that demonstrate success in meeting the unique needs of the corporate, non-profit, and government communities in the State, as evidenced by providing internships for professional science master's degree students or similar partnership arrangements; or
(B) that secure more than two-thirds of the funding for such professional science master's degree programs from sources other than the Federal Government.
(4) Number of grants; time period of grants
(A) Number of grants
Subject to the availability of appropriated funds, the Director shall award grants under paragraph (1) to a maximum of 200 4-year institutions of higher education.
(B) Time period of grants
Grants awarded under this section shall be for one 3-year term. Grants may be renewed only once for a maximum of 2 additional years.
(5) Evaluation and reports
(A) Development of performance benchmarks
Prior to the start of the grant program, the Director, in collaboration with 4-year institutions of higher education (including applicable graduate schools and academic departments), and industries and Federal agencies that employ science-trained personnel, shall develop performance benchmarks to evaluate the pilot programs assisted by grants under this section.
(B) Evaluation
For each year of the grant period, the Director, in consultation with 4-year institutions of higher education (including applicable graduate schools and academic departments), and industries and Federal agencies that employ science-trained personnel, shall complete an evaluation of each program assisted by grants under this section. Any program that fails to satisfy the performance benchmarks developed under subparagraph (A) shall not be eligible for further funding.
(C) Report
Not later than 180 days after the completion of an evaluation described in subparagraph (B), the Director shall submit a report to Congress that includes—
(i) the results of the evaluation; and
(ii) recommendations for administrative and legislative action that could optimize the effectiveness of the pilot programs, as the Director determines to be appropriate.
(
References in Text
The Higher Education Act of 1965, referred to in subsec. (b)(2)(D), is
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–14. Major research instrumentation
(a) Award amount
The minimum amount of an award under the Major Research Instrumentation program shall be $100,000. The maximum amount of an award under the program shall be $4,000,000 except if the total amount appropriated for the program for a fiscal year exceeds $125,000,000, in which case the maximum amount of an award shall be $6,000,000.
(b) Use of funds
In addition to the acquisition of instrumentation and equipment, funds made available by awards under the Major Research Instrumentation program may be used to support the operations and maintenance of such instrumentation and equipment.
(c) Cost sharing
(1) In general
An institution of higher education receiving an award under the Major Research Instrumentation program shall provide at least 30 percent of the cost from private or non-Federal sources.
(2) Exceptions
Institutions of higher education that are not Ph.D.-granting institutions are exempt from the cost sharing requirement in paragraph (1), and the Director may reduce or waive the cost sharing requirement for—
(A) institutions—
(i) that are not ranked among the top 100 institutions receiving Federal research and development funding, as documented by the statistical data published by the Foundation; and
(ii) for which the proposed project will make a substantial improvement in the institution's capabilities to conduct leading edge research, to provide research experiences for undergraduate students using leading edge facilities, and to broaden the participation in science and engineering research by individuals identified in
(B) consortia of institutions of higher education that include at least one institution that is not a Ph.D.-granting institution.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862o–15. Limit on proposals
(a) Policy
For programs supported by the Foundation that require as part of the selection process for awards the submission of preproposals and that also limit the number of preproposals that may be submitted by an institution, the Director shall allow the subsequent submission of a full proposal based on each preproposal that is determined to have merit following the Foundation's merit review process.
(b) Review and assessment of policies
The Board shall review and assess the effects on institutions of higher education of the policies of the Foundation regarding the imposition of limitations on the number of proposals that may be submitted by a single institution for programs supported by the Foundation. The Board shall determine whether current policies are well justified and appropriate for the types of programs that limit the number of proposal submissions. Not later than 1 year after August 9, 2007, the Board shall summarize the Board's findings and any recommendations regarding changes to the current policy on the restriction of proposal submissions in a report to the Committee on Science and Technology of the House of Representatives and to the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Senate.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Act, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Act, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Change of Name
Committee on Science and Technology of House of Representatives changed to Committee on Science, Space, and Technology of House of Representatives by House Resolution No. 5, One Hundred Twelfth Congress, Jan. 5, 2011.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 7001 of
§1862p. National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics
(a) Establishment
There is established within the Foundation a National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics that shall serve as a central Federal clearinghouse for the collection, interpretation, analysis, and dissemination of objective data on science, engineering, technology, and research and development.
(b) Duties
In carrying out subsection (a) of this section, the Director, acting through the Center shall—
(1) collect, acquire, analyze, report, and disseminate statistical data related to the science and engineering enterprise in the United States and other nations that is relevant and useful to practitioners, researchers, policymakers, and the public, including statistical data on—
(A) research and development trends;
(B) the science and engineering workforce;
(C) United States competitiveness in science, engineering, technology, and research and development; and
(D) the condition and progress of United States STEM education;
(2) support research using the data it collects, and on methodologies in areas related to the work of the Center; and
(3) support the education and training of researchers in the use of large-scale, nationally representative data sets.
(c) Statistical reports
The Director or the National Science Board, acting through the Center, shall issue regular, and as necessary, special statistical reports on topics related to the national and international science and engineering enterprise such as the biennial report required by
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Reauthorization Act of 2010, and also as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2010, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Research on Efficiency of Skilled Technical Labor Markets
"(a)
"(b)
"(1)
"(2)
"(3)
Definitions
For definition of "STEM" as used in this section, see section 2 of
"(1)
"(2)
"(A) the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research established by the Foundation; or
"(B) a program similar to the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research at another Federal agency.
"(3)
"(4)
"(5)
"(6)
§1862p–1. National Science Foundation manufacturing research and education
(a) Manufacturing research
The Director shall carry out a program to award merit-reviewed, competitive grants to institutions of higher education to support fundamental research leading to transformative advances in manufacturing technologies, processes, and enterprises that will support United States manufacturing through improved performance, productivity, sustainability, and competitiveness. Research areas may include—
(1) nanomanufacturing;
(2) manufacturing and construction machines and equipment, including robotics, automation, and other intelligent systems;
(3) manufacturing enterprise systems;
(4) advanced sensing and control techniques;
(5) materials processing; and
(6) information technologies for manufacturing, including predictive and real-time models and simulations, and virtual manufacturing.
(b) Manufacturing education
In order to help ensure a well-trained manufacturing workforce, the Director shall award grants to strengthen and expand scientific and technical education and training in advanced manufacturing, including through the Foundation's Advanced Technological Education program.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Reauthorization Act of 2010, and also as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2010, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 502 of
§1862p–2. Partnerships for innovation
(a) In general
The Director shall carry out a program to award merit-reviewed, competitive grants to institutions of higher education to establish and to expand partnerships that promote innovation and increase the impact of research by developing tools and resources to connect new scientific discoveries to practical uses.
(b) Partnerships
(1) In general
To be eligible for funding under this section, an institution of higher education must propose establishment of a partnership that—
(A) includes at least one private sector entity; and
(B) may include other institutions of higher education, public sector institutions, private sector entities, and nonprofit organizations.
(2) Priority
In selecting grant recipients under this section, the Director shall give priority to partnerships that include one or more institutions of higher education and at least one of the following:
(A) A minority serving institution.
(B) A primarily undergraduate institution.
(C) A 2-year institution of higher education.
(c) Program
Proposals funded under this section shall seek—
(1) to increase the impact of the most promising research at the institution or institutions of higher education that are members of the partnership through knowledge transfer or commercialization;
(2) to increase the engagement of faculty and students across multiple disciplines and departments, including faculty and students in schools of business and other appropriate non-STEM fields and disciplines in knowledge transfer activities;
(3) to enhance education and mentoring of students and faculty in innovation and entrepreneurship through networks, courses, and development of best practices and curricula;
(4) to strengthen the culture of the institution or institutions of higher education to undertake and participate in activities related to innovation and leading to economic or social impact;
(5) to broaden the participation of all types of institutions of higher education in activities to meet STEM workforce needs and promote innovation and knowledge transfer; and
(6) to build lasting partnerships with local and regional businesses, local and State governments, and other relevant entities.
(d) Additional criteria
In selecting grant recipients under this section, the Director shall also consider the extent to which the applicants are able to demonstrate evidence of institutional support for, and commitment to—
(1) achieving the goals of the program as described in subsection (c);
(2) expansion to an institution-wide program if the initial proposal is not for an institution-wide program; and
(3) sustaining any new innovation tools and resources generated from funding under this program.
(e) Limitation
No funds provided under this section may be used to construct or renovate a building or structure.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Reauthorization Act of 2010, and also as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2010, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Definitions
For definitions of terms used in this section, see section 2 of
§1862p–3. Sustainable chemistry basic research
The Director shall establish a Green Chemistry Basic Research program to award competitive, merit-based grants to support research into green and sustainable chemistry which will lead to clean, safe, and economical alternatives to traditional chemical products and practices. The research program shall provide sustained support for green chemistry research, education, and technology transfer through—
(1) merit-reviewed competitive grants to individual investigators and teams of investigators, including, to the extent practicable, young investigators, for research;
(2) grants to fund collaborative research partnerships among universities, industry, and nonprofit organizations;
(3) symposia, forums, and conferences to increase outreach, collaboration, and dissemination of green chemistry advances and practices; and
(4) education, training, and retraining of undergraduate and graduate students and professional chemists and chemical engineers, including through partnerships with industry, in green chemistry science and engineering.
(
Codification
Section was enacted as part of the America COMPETES Reauthorization Act of 2010, also known as the America Creating Opportunities to Meaningfully Promote Excellence in Technology, Education, and Science Reauthorization Act of 2010, and also as part of the National Science Foundation Authorization Act of 2010, and not as part of the National Science Foundation Act of 1950 which comprises this chapter.
Coordination of Sustainable Chemistry Research and Development
"(a)