The Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program, a flagship initiative of the National Science Foundation (NSF), stands as the most esteemed recognition for early-career faculty. This career success program is designed to empower individuals who demonstrate exceptional potential as academic role models in both research and education. It aims to cultivate leadership within their respective departments and organizations, propelling advancements in their core missions.
The NSF CAREER program encourages early-career academics to establish a robust foundation for a lifetime of leadership by seamlessly integrating education and research endeavors. It is open to early-career faculty across all CAREER-eligible institutions, with a particular emphasis on encouraging applications from women, underrepresented minority groups, and individuals with disabilities, fostering inclusivity and diversity within STEM fields.
Furthermore, the NSF CAREER program serves as a gateway to even greater accolades, notably the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). Each year, the NSF nominates select CAREER award recipients for PECASE, the highest honor bestowed by the U.S. government on outstanding scientists and engineers in the early stages of their independent research careers.
Selection for PECASE is a testament to exceptional achievement, judged on three core criteria: (1) pioneering research at the cutting edge of science, engineering, and technology that aligns with the mission of the sponsoring agency, (2) impactful community service through scientific leadership, education, or public outreach, and (3) a demonstrable commitment to STEM equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion.
These prestigious awards not only champion groundbreaking advancements in science and technology but also amplify awareness of STEM career pathways, acknowledge the crucial scientific missions of participating agencies, strengthen the vital links between fundamental research and national objectives, and underscore the paramount importance of science and technology for the future of the Nation. Individuals cannot directly apply for PECASE; nominations are initiated by participating federal agencies. The NSF can nominate up to twenty-six individuals annually from the pool of PECASE-eligible CAREER awardees – those deemed most likely to become the vanguards of academic research and education in the 21st century. The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy ultimately selects and announces the PECASE awardees.
