National Science Foundation Executive and Leadership Team

October, 2026

Leadership Overview

National Science Foundation has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, organizational operations, agency administration, and policy advisory.

Committed to advancing national health and prosperity, National Science Foundation promotes the progress of science through rigorous research funding and strategic federal oversight of scientific discovery.

Leadership Roles at National Science Foundation

  • Chief Executive Officer - Xiaoyan Wang
  • Chief of Staff - Lisa Vonder Haar
  • Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF - Brian Stone
  • Senior Advisor To the Director - Judith Sunley
  • Xiaoyan Wang - Chief Executive Officer

    Xiaoyan Wang, the Chief Executive Officer at National Science Foundation, directs the overarching strategic vision for federal scientific advancement. Wang manages the allocation of research grants across diverse disciplines to ensure national prosperity and welfare. By coordinating with congressional stakeholders, the Chief Executive Officer maintains alignment between agency objectives and federal mandates. This leadership role involves overseeing the implementation of large-scale scientific initiatives that impact the global research landscape. Xiaoyan Wang drives operational excellence by fostering innovation within the agency framework. Through the prioritization of high-impact research projects, the Chief Executive Officer strengthens the scientific infrastructure of the United States. Furthermore, Wang facilitates cross-departmental collaboration to address complex societal challenges. By maintaining rigorous standards for grant distribution, the Chief Executive Officer ensures the effective utilization of federal resources to promote long-term scientific progress and national health.

    Lisa Vonder Haar - Chief of Staff

    Lisa Vonder Haar, the Chief of Staff at National Science Foundation, manages internal agency operations and coordinates executive communications. Vonder Haar optimizes administrative workflows to support the mission of promoting scientific progress. By facilitating daily interactions between senior leadership and departmental heads, the Chief of Staff ensures the seamless execution of agency-wide policies. This role involves managing the flow of critical information to the directorate, thereby enabling informed decision-making regarding research priorities. Lisa Vonder Haar drives organizational efficiency by streamlining internal processes and resource management. The Chief of Staff oversees the integration of administrative functions with broader scientific goals to maintain operational stability. Through the coordination of high-level meetings and strategic planning sessions, Vonder Haar supports the agency in achieving its federal mandates. Ultimately, the Chief of Staff maintains the structural integrity required for the agency to advance national welfare through scientific discovery.

    Brian Stone - Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF

    Brian Stone, the Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF at National Science Foundation, oversees the execution of core agency duties and administrative functions. Stone manages the operational requirements necessary to sustain the agency's commitment to scientific advancement. By directing the implementation of federal policies, the Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF ensures that research initiatives align with national prosperity goals. This leadership role involves managing complex administrative portfolios and coordinating with external partners to expand the reach of scientific programs. Brian Stone drives the development of internal frameworks that support the agency's mission. The Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF monitors the progress of various scientific projects to ensure compliance with federal standards. Through the management of critical agency resources, Stone facilitates the continued growth of the national research enterprise and supports long-term scientific welfare.

    Judith Sunley - Senior Advisor To the Director

    Judith Sunley, the Senior Advisor To the Director at National Science Foundation, provides strategic guidance on scientific policy and research prioritization. Sunley evaluates emerging trends in the scientific community to inform the agency's long-term research agenda. By advising the directorate on complex technical and policy matters, the Senior Advisor To the Director ensures that funding decisions reflect the most pressing needs of the national scientific landscape. This role involves analyzing the impact of federal research investments and recommending adjustments to optimize scientific outcomes. Judith Sunley drives the development of frameworks that promote interdisciplinary collaboration across the agency. The Senior Advisor To the Director facilitates high-level discussions regarding the future of scientific discovery and its role in national health. Through the provision of expert insights, Sunley supports the agency in maintaining its position as a leader in federal scientific promotion and innovation.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding National Science Foundation Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads National Science Foundation?
    National Science Foundation is led by Xiaoyan Wang (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Lisa Vonder Haar (Chief of Staff) and Brian Stone (Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF).
    Who is part of National Science Foundation’s executive team?
    The executive team of National Science Foundation includes leaders such as Xiaoyan Wang (Chief Executive Officer), Lisa Vonder Haar (Chief of Staff), Brian Stone (Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does National Science Foundation have?
    National Science Foundation has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in National Science Foundation’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of National Science Foundation includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief of Staff, Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF, Senior Advisor To the Director.