National Science Foundation Executive and Leadership Team

Xiaoyan Wang, the Chief Executive Officer at National Science Foundation, directs the overarching strategic vision for the agency. Wang architects long-term goals to promote the progress of science and advance national health. By aligning federal research priorities with emerging technological needs, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the agency maintains a competitive edge in global scientific innovation. Xiaoyan Wang manages high-level relationships with congressional stakeholders to secure necessary funding for critical research initiatives. This leadership role involves overseeing the distribution of grants to academic institutions across the United States. Through rigorous evaluation of scientific impact, the Chief Executive Officer optimizes resource allocation to maximize societal benefits. By fostering collaboration between public and private sectors, Wang strengthens the national research infrastructure. Ultimately, the Chief Executive Officer maintains the integrity of the agency while driving forward the mission to support fundamental discovery and technological advancement for the benefit of the entire nation.

Caitlyn Fife, the Chief Financial Officer at National Science Foundation, manages the fiscal health and budgetary integrity of the agency. Fife oversees the complex financial operations required to support diverse scientific research programs. By implementing robust accounting standards, the Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with federal regulations and transparency in grant distribution. Caitlyn Fife directs the allocation of funds across various scientific disciplines, balancing immediate research needs with long-term fiscal sustainability. This leadership role involves coordinating with the Office of Management and Budget to justify funding requests and demonstrate the economic impact of scientific investments. Through meticulous oversight of financial reporting, the Chief Financial Officer mitigates risk and enhances operational efficiency. By providing accurate financial data to the executive team, Fife supports informed decision-making regarding agency priorities. Ultimately, the Chief Financial Officer secures the financial foundation necessary for the agency to continue promoting scientific progress and national welfare.

Jesse Simons, the Deputy Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Office Head at National Science Foundation, manages the granular details of the agency's financial reporting and budgetary compliance. Simons directs the internal audit processes that ensure the accuracy of fiscal data. By overseeing the daily financial transactions, the Deputy Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Office Head maintains the integrity of the agency's accounting records. Jesse Simons coordinates with department heads to monitor spending against allocated budgets and identify opportunities for cost savings. This leadership role involves preparing detailed financial reports that support the agency's strategic planning efforts. Through the rigorous application of federal financial standards, the Deputy Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Office Head ensures that all expenditures align with the mission to promote scientific research. By providing precise financial oversight, Simons supports the agency's ability to advance national health and prosperity. Ultimately, the Deputy Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Office Head secures the fiscal discipline required for long-term success.

Lisa Vonder Haar, the Chief of Staff at National Science Foundation, coordinates the daily operations and strategic initiatives of the executive office. Vonder Haar facilitates communication between the directorate and various internal departments to ensure alignment with agency goals. By managing the flow of information and prioritizing critical tasks, the Chief of Staff optimizes the productivity of the leadership team. Lisa Vonder Haar oversees the implementation of administrative policies that support the agency's mission to promote scientific research. This leadership role involves resolving complex operational challenges and fostering a collaborative environment across the organization. Through the management of high-priority projects, the Chief of Staff ensures that strategic objectives receive the necessary attention and resources. By streamlining internal processes, Vonder Haar enhances the overall effectiveness of the agency. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff maintains organizational focus, allowing the agency to advance national health, prosperity, and welfare through consistent and efficient administrative leadership.

Clyde Richards, the Chief Information Officer at National Science Foundation, architects the digital infrastructure required to support large-scale scientific data management. Richards directs the modernization of information systems to ensure secure and efficient access to research findings. By implementing advanced cybersecurity protocols, the Chief Information Officer protects sensitive scientific data and agency communications. Clyde Richards oversees the integration of cloud-based solutions to facilitate collaboration among researchers across the country. This leadership role involves managing the technological roadmap to support the agency's mission of promoting scientific progress. Through the deployment of high-performance computing resources, the Chief Information Officer enables complex data analysis that drives innovation. By aligning IT investments with research priorities, Richards ensures that the agency remains at the forefront of digital transformation. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer provides the essential technological backbone that allows the agency to advance national prosperity through data-driven discovery and robust information management.

Brian Stone, the Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF at National Science Foundation, manages the dual responsibilities of administrative coordination and interim executive leadership. Stone directs the execution of agency-wide policies to ensure the continued promotion of scientific research. By overseeing the transition of key initiatives, the Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF maintains operational continuity during periods of leadership change. Brian Stone facilitates high-level decision-making processes that impact the national scientific agenda. This leadership role involves representing the agency in inter-agency forums and communicating the value of fundamental research to external stakeholders. Through the careful management of resources and personnel, the Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF ensures that the agency remains focused on its core mission. By fostering a culture of excellence, Stone supports the advancement of national health and welfare. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF provides stable and effective guidance for the agency.

David Riggs, the Chief Information Officer, Office of at National Science Foundation, manages the operational aspects of the agency's information technology division. Riggs directs the maintenance and optimization of internal networks that support administrative and research functions. By overseeing the daily performance of IT systems, the Chief Information Officer, Office of ensures that staff have the tools necessary to fulfill the agency's mission. David Riggs coordinates with technical teams to resolve infrastructure issues and improve system reliability. This leadership role involves managing the procurement and deployment of hardware and software solutions that enhance organizational productivity. Through the implementation of standardized IT procedures, the Chief Information Officer, Office of reduces operational downtime and improves data accessibility. By focusing on the technical requirements of the agency, Riggs supports the broader goal of promoting scientific progress. Ultimately, the Chief Information Officer, Office of maintains the digital environment that enables the agency to advance national prosperity and welfare.

Judith Sunley, the Senior Advisor To the Director at National Science Foundation, provides strategic guidance on complex scientific and policy matters. Sunley directs the development of initiatives that align agency activities with national research priorities. By analyzing emerging trends in science and engineering, the Senior Advisor To the Director informs the leadership team on critical areas for investment. Judith Sunley facilitates high-level discussions regarding the future of scientific education and research infrastructure. This leadership role involves synthesizing expert input to shape the agency's long-term vision. Through the provision of evidence-based advice, the Senior Advisor To the Director helps the agency navigate the evolving landscape of federal science policy. By fostering partnerships with academic and industry leaders, Sunley expands the impact of the agency's programs. Ultimately, the Senior Advisor To the Director contributes to the agency's mission by ensuring that strategic decisions are grounded in deep scientific expertise and a commitment to national welfare.