The Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program, a flagship initiative of the National Science Foundation (NSF), stands as the most prestigious award offered by this foundation. It is specifically designed to bolster early-career faculty members who demonstrate exceptional promise in becoming academic role models, excelling in both pioneering research and impactful education. These individuals are expected to drive advancements within their departments and organizations, shaping the future of their respective fields.
The program emphasizes the crucial integration of education and research in the career trajectory of early-stage academics. It aims to cultivate a robust foundation for sustained leadership throughout their professional lives. The NSF actively encourages applications from all CAREER-eligible institutions, with a particular emphasis on fostering diversity and inclusion. Women, members of underrepresented minority groups, and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply, ensuring a broad spectrum of talent is supported and recognized.
The Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE)
Building upon the foundation of the CAREER program, the NSF annually nominates exemplary CAREER award recipients for the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). This prestigious award, initiated by participating federal agencies, is bestowed upon a select group of the most meritorious recent CAREER awardees. Individuals cannot directly apply for the PECASE; rather, selection is an honor derived from exceptional performance within the CAREER framework.
The selection criteria for PECASE are rigorous and multifaceted, focusing on three key pillars:
- Pioneering Research: Demonstrated excellence in innovative research that pushes the boundaries of science, engineering, and technology. This research must be directly relevant to the mission of the sponsoring organization or agency, highlighting its potential impact on national priorities.
- Community Service through Scientific Leadership: A commitment to community service evidenced through impactful scientific leadership, dedicated educational initiatives, or significant community outreach efforts. This criterion underscores the importance of translating research excellence into broader societal benefit.
- Dedication to STEM Equity, Diversity, Accessibility, and Inclusion: A clear and demonstrable commitment to fostering equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion within STEM fields. This recognizes the critical need for a diverse and inclusive scientific workforce to drive innovation and address complex challenges.
The PECASE awards serve a vital purpose: to foster groundbreaking advancements in science and technology, raise public awareness of STEM careers, acknowledge the scientific missions of participating agencies, strengthen the crucial links between fundamental research and national objectives, and underscore the paramount importance of science and technology for the nation’s future prosperity. For NSF, up to twenty-six nominees are chosen from the pool of PECASE-eligible CAREER awardees, representing those deemed most likely to become the leading figures in academic research and education in the 21st century. The final selection and public announcement of PECASE awardees are made by the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, further highlighting the national significance of this recognition.
