The Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program, a flagship initiative of the National Science Foundation (NSF), stands as the agency’s most esteemed recognition for early-career faculty. This program is specifically designed as an Early Career Development Program, aimed at supporting individuals who demonstrate the potential to excel as academic role models in both research and education. It empowers these faculty members to spearhead advancements within their departments and organizations, fostering a robust foundation for lifelong leadership in integrating research with educational practices. The NSF strongly encourages applications from all CAREER-eligible institutions, with a particular emphasis on promoting the participation of women, underrepresented minority groups, and persons with disabilities.
Each year, the NSF further elevates the impact of the CAREER program by nominating exceptional awardees for the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). The PECASE award is a high honor, recognizing researchers based on three core criteria: first, the pursuit of groundbreaking research at the forefront of science, engineering, and technology that aligns with the sponsoring agency’s mission; second, a demonstrated commitment to community service through scientific leadership, educational outreach, or broader community engagement; and third, a dedication to advancing STEM equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion. The PECASE awards serve to stimulate innovation in science and technology, raise public awareness of STEM careers, acknowledge the crucial scientific objectives of participating federal agencies, strengthen the links between fundamental research and national priorities, and underscore the vital role of science and technology in the Nation’s future. Individuals cannot directly apply for the PECASE; instead, federal agencies like the NSF initiate nominations. From the pool of PECASE-eligible CAREER awardees, the NSF selects up to twenty-six nominees annually, identifying those with the greatest promise to become future leaders in academic research and education in the 21st century. The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy ultimately makes the final selections and public announcements of the PECASE awardees.
