Leadership Overview
National Science Foundation has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, and technology.
Driven by scientific advancement, National Science Foundation is dedicated to fostering discovery and innovation to enhance national health, prosperity, and welfare through federal agency leadership.
Driven by scientific advancement, National Science Foundation is dedicated to fostering discovery and innovation to enhance national health, prosperity, and welfare through federal agency leadership.
Leadership Roles at National Science Foundation
Xiaoyan Wang - Chief Executive Officer
Xiaoyan Wang, the Chief Executive Officer at National Science Foundation, directs the overarching strategy and vision for the organization. This leadership position involves setting the direction for scientific research and education initiatives across the nation. Wang ensures alignment with the agency's mandate to advance national health, prosperity, and welfare through scientific progress. Overseeing key strategic partnerships, the Chief Executive Officer fosters collaboration with academic institutions, industry, and other government bodies. This role is critical in driving innovation and maintaining the NSF's position as a leader in scientific funding and oversight. The strategic decisions made by Xiaoyan Wang directly impact the future of scientific discovery and technological advancement within the United States.
Caitlyn Fife - Acting Chief Financial Officer
Caitlyn Fife, the Acting Chief Financial Officer at National Science Foundation, oversees the agency's financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal management. This critical role ensures the responsible allocation of resources to support scientific research and educational programs nationwide. Fife directs financial operations, including accounting, auditing, and financial reporting, to maintain transparency and accountability. Managing the agency's financial health, the Acting Chief Financial Officer ensures compliance with federal regulations and optimizes resource utilization. This leadership function is essential for sustaining the NSF's ability to fund groundbreaking scientific endeavors. The financial acumen of Caitlyn Fife is vital for the agency's long-term stability and mission effectiveness.
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 and financial strategy. This role is integral to ensuring the accurate and efficient management of federal funds allocated for scientific research and development. Simons oversees specific financial functions and contributes to the development of budgets and financial plans that support the NSF's mission. Leading key financial teams, the Deputy Deputy Chief Financial Officer, Office Head ensures compliance with all relevant financial regulations and reporting standards. The detailed financial oversight provided by Jesse Simons is crucial for maintaining the integrity and effectiveness of the agency's funding mechanisms.
Lisa Vonder Haar - Chief of Staff
Lisa Vonder Haar, the Chief of Staff at National Science Foundation, manages the operational efficiency and strategic execution of the agency's directives. This role involves coordinating activities across various departments to ensure seamless workflow and adherence to the NSF's mission. Vonder Haar supports the Chief Executive Officer by streamlining communication and facilitating decision-making processes. Overseeing internal operations, the Chief of Staff ensures that resources are allocated effectively to support scientific research and development programs. This leadership position is vital for maintaining organizational coherence and driving forward the agency's objectives. The strategic oversight provided by Lisa Vonder Haar is essential for the effective functioning of the National Science Foundation.
Rebecca Keiser - Acting Chief of Staff
Rebecca Keiser, the Acting Chief of Staff at National Science Foundation, provides critical support in managing the agency's day-to-day operations and strategic initiatives. This role focuses on ensuring the smooth execution of programs and policies designed to advance science and engineering. Keiser works closely with other senior leaders to facilitate communication and coordination across different divisions. Overseeing immediate operational needs, the Acting Chief of Staff ensures that the agency can respond effectively to emerging challenges and opportunities. This leadership function is key to maintaining momentum in scientific progress and supporting the NSF's core mission. The contributions of Rebecca Keiser are integral to the agency's operational continuity and strategic advancement.
David Riggs - Chief Information Officer, Office of
David Riggs, the Chief Information Officer, Office of at National Science Foundation, directs the agency's technology strategy and infrastructure. This leadership position is responsible for ensuring robust, secure, and efficient information systems that support scientific research and administrative functions. Riggs oversees the development and implementation of digital solutions that enhance data management, collaboration, and accessibility for the scientific community. Managing the agency's IT portfolio, the Chief Information Officer, Office of ensures technological advancements align with the NSF's mission to promote scientific progress. This role is crucial for leveraging technology to drive innovation and operational excellence. The expertise of David Riggs is fundamental to the National Science Foundation's digital transformation and operational resilience.
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, holds a dual leadership capacity, managing both operational coordination and key directorial functions. This comprehensive role involves overseeing strategic initiatives and ensuring the effective implementation of the agency's mission across various departments. Stone directs critical operational processes and provides leadership for specific programmatic areas, ensuring alignment with national scientific objectives. Managing the synergy between staff operations and directorship responsibilities, the Chief of Staff & Director, Performing The Duties of The NSF ensures robust execution of the agency's mandate. The multifaceted contributions of Brian Stone are central to the National Science Foundation's operational success and strategic direction.
Joyce Johnson - Chief Medical Officer & Contractor
Joyce Johnson, the Chief Medical Officer & Contractor at National Science Foundation, provides specialized expertise in health and medical research oversight. This role focuses on guiding the agency's involvement in medical science initiatives and ensuring that funded research adheres to the highest ethical and scientific standards. Johnson collaborates with researchers and institutions to advance understanding in critical health areas. Overseeing medical research compliance, the Chief Medical Officer & Contractor ensures that all health-related projects align with national priorities and regulatory requirements. This leadership position is vital for directing NSF's impact on public health and medical innovation. The contributions of Joyce Johnson are essential for advancing the frontiers of medical science through supported research.
Judith Sunley - Senior Advisor To the Director
Judith Sunley, the Senior Advisor To the Director at National Science Foundation, provides high-level strategic counsel and guidance on critical agency matters. This role involves offering expert insights and recommendations to shape the direction of scientific programs and policy initiatives. Sunley supports the Director by analyzing complex issues and developing actionable strategies to advance the NSF's mission. Advising on key organizational priorities, the Senior Advisor To the Director ensures that strategic decisions are informed by comprehensive analysis and foresight. This position is crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of scientific research and federal policy. The experienced counsel of Judith Sunley is invaluable to the National Science Foundation's strategic planning and execution.
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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding National Science Foundation Top Executives and Leadership Team
