The Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program stands as the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) most esteemed initiative, designed to bolster early-career faculty members. This program is not just an award; it’s an investment in individuals poised to become academic trailblazers in both research and education, leading their departments and institutions into the future. The Nsf Career Program specifically seeks to cultivate a robust foundation for early-career academics, enabling them to integrate education and research throughout their careers.
NSF strongly encourages applications from all CAREER-eligible organizations, with a particular emphasis on fostering diversity. Women, individuals from underrepresented minority groups, and persons with disabilities are especially invited to apply, ensuring a broad spectrum of talent and perspectives within the program.
Building upon the foundation of the CAREER program, the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) represent the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government on outstanding scientists and engineers in the early stages of their independent research careers. Each year, NSF nominates a select group from the most distinguished recent CAREER award recipients for PECASE recognition.
Selection for PECASE is grounded in three critical benchmarks: pioneering research at the cutting edge of science, engineering, and technology that aligns with the mission of the sponsoring agency; a demonstrable commitment to community service through scientific leadership, educational initiatives, or broader outreach; and a dedication to STEM equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion.
These prestigious awards serve multiple vital purposes. They stimulate innovative advancements in science and technology, raise public awareness of STEM careers, acknowledge the critical scientific missions of participating federal agencies, strengthen the links between foundational research and national objectives, and underscore the paramount importance of science and technology for the nation’s trajectory. Individuals cannot directly apply for PECASE; nominations are initiated by federal agencies. NSF can nominate up to twenty-six individuals annually from its PECASE-eligible CAREER awardees, identifying those with the greatest potential to lead academic research and education in the 21st century. The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy ultimately selects and announces the PECASE awardees, marking the pinnacle of achievement for early-career researchers.
