National Science Foundation Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

The National Science Foundation has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, technology, finance, and medical affairs.

Driven by a commitment to scientific advancement, National Science Foundation fosters innovation and supports research to enhance national health, prosperity, and welfare through federal agency leadership.

Leadership Roles at National Science Foundation

  • Chief Executive Officer - Xiaoyan Wang
  • Acting Chief Financial Officer - Caitlyn Fife
  • Deputy Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Office Head - Jesse Simons
  • Chief of Staff - Lisa Vonder Haar
  • Chief Information Officer - Clyde Richards
  • Acting Chief of Staff - Rebecca Keiser
  • Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF - Brian Stone
  • Chief Medical Officer & Contractor - Joyce Johnson
  • 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 strategy and operational framework for the agency. This leadership position involves setting the direction for scientific research funding and policy, ensuring alignment with the foundational mandate to advance national health, prosperity, and welfare. Wang oversees the integration of diverse scientific disciplines and fosters an environment conducive to groundbreaking discoveries. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to representing the National Science Foundation in federal and international forums, advocating for scientific investment and collaboration. This role demands a comprehensive understanding of global scientific trends and their potential impact on societal progress. Xiaoyan Wang drives the agency's mission forward by championing innovation and ensuring the efficient allocation of resources across all research initiatives.

    Caitlyn Fife - Acting Chief Financial Officer

    Caitlyn Fife, the Acting Chief Financial Officer at National Science Foundation, directs the agency's financial operations and fiscal management. This critical role involves overseeing budgeting, financial planning, accounting, and reporting to ensure the responsible allocation and stewardship of federal funds. Fife manages financial controls, audits, and compliance with all relevant regulations, safeguarding the agency's financial integrity. The Acting Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include developing financial strategies that support the National Science Foundation's mission of advancing science and promoting national welfare. Caitlyn Fife ensures that financial resources are effectively utilized to maximize the impact of research grants and operational activities, contributing to the agency's overall success.

    Jesse Simons - Deputy Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Office Head

    Jesse Simons, the Deputy Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Office Head at National Science Foundation, supports the Chief Financial Officer in managing the agency's fiscal operations. This position involves overseeing specific financial functions, including budget execution, financial analysis, and compliance monitoring, ensuring adherence to federal financial regulations. Simons contributes to the development and implementation of financial strategies that align with the National Science Foundation's mission to advance science and technology. The Deputy Deputy Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include managing financial reporting processes and supporting audits to maintain fiscal accountability. Jesse Simons plays a vital role in ensuring the efficient and effective use of resources, directly supporting the agency's research and development initiatives.

    Lisa Vonder Haar - Chief of Staff

    Lisa Vonder Haar, the Chief of Staff at National Science Foundation, manages the executive office and facilitates the seamless execution of strategic initiatives. This role involves coordinating communication and operations between the Chief Executive Officer and other senior leaders, ensuring efficient workflow and decision-making processes. Vonder Haar oversees the implementation of key policies and programs, acting as a central point of contact for critical agency-wide projects. The Chief of Staff's duties include preparing briefings, managing schedules, and ensuring that the executive team operates with maximum effectiveness. Lisa Vonder Haar supports the strategic direction by streamlining internal operations and fostering collaboration across departments, directly contributing to the agency's mission of advancing science and promoting national welfare.

    Clyde Richards - Chief Information Officer

    Clyde Richards, the Chief Information Officer at National Science Foundation, architects and directs the agency's information technology strategy and infrastructure. This leadership role encompasses overseeing the development, implementation, and maintenance of robust IT systems that support scientific research, data management, and operational efficiency. Richards ensures the security and integrity of sensitive data, manages technological innovation, and promotes the adoption of advanced digital solutions across the organization. The Chief Information Officer's purview includes managing IT budgets, vendor relationships, and ensuring compliance with federal technology standards. Clyde Richards drives technological advancement, enabling the National Science Foundation to effectively fulfill its mission of promoting scientific progress and national welfare through secure and advanced information systems.
    Clyde Richards

    Rebecca Keiser - Acting Chief of Staff

    Rebecca Keiser, the Acting Chief of Staff at National Science Foundation, manages the executive office and supports the strategic direction of the agency. This role involves coordinating high-level initiatives, facilitating communication among senior leadership, and ensuring the efficient operation of the Chief Executive Officer's office. Keiser oversees the implementation of key policies and projects, acting as a liaison between different departments to drive cohesive action. The Acting Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing critical documents, managing complex schedules, and ensuring that executive decisions are effectively translated into operational plans. Rebecca Keiser enhances the agency's effectiveness by optimizing internal processes and fostering strong collaborative relationships across the National Science Foundation.

    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, directs critical operational functions and provides executive leadership. This multifaceted role involves overseeing key administrative and strategic activities, ensuring the agency operates efficiently and effectively towards its mission. Stone manages interdepartmental coordination, facilitates high-level decision-making, and champions initiatives that advance scientific progress and national welfare. The Chief of Staff & Director's responsibilities include guiding policy implementation and ensuring alignment with federal mandates. Brian Stone's leadership ensures the National Science Foundation maintains its commitment to fostering innovation and supporting groundbreaking research across diverse scientific fields.

    Joyce Johnson - Chief Medical Officer & Contractor

    Joyce Johnson, the Chief Medical Officer & Contractor at National Science Foundation, oversees medical affairs and advises on health-related scientific initiatives. This role involves ensuring that the agency's research funding and policies align with advancements in medical science and contribute to national health objectives. Johnson provides expert guidance on public health implications of scientific research and fosters collaborations with medical institutions. The Chief Medical Officer & Contractor's responsibilities include evaluating the health impact of funded projects and advising on ethical considerations in medical research. Joyce Johnson's contributions are vital in directing scientific endeavors that promote the nation's health and welfare through cutting-edge medical research.
    Joyce Johnson

    Judith Sunley - Senior Advisor To the Director

    Judith Sunley, the Senior Advisor To the Director at National Science Foundation, provides strategic counsel and expert guidance on critical agency initiatives. This role involves analyzing complex scientific and policy issues, offering insights to shape the director's decision-making and advance the National Science Foundation's mission. Sunley contributes to the development of long-term strategies, focusing on enhancing scientific discovery and its impact on national health, prosperity, and welfare. The Senior Advisor's responsibilities include fostering collaborations, evaluating program effectiveness, and identifying emerging opportunities for scientific advancement. Judith Sunley's expertise supports the director in navigating the evolving landscape of scientific research and federal policy.

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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 Caitlyn Fife (Acting Chief Financial Officer) and Jesse Simons (Deputy Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Office Head).
    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), Caitlyn Fife (Acting Chief Financial Officer), Jesse Simons (Deputy Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Office Head) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does National Science Foundation have?
    National Science Foundation has 9 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, Acting Chief Financial Officer, Deputy Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Office Head, Chief of Staff, Chief Information Officer.