The Faculty Early Career Development (CAREER) Program, a prestigious initiative by the National Science Foundation (NSF), is designed to empower early-career faculty, including those in data science, who demonstrate the potential to be exemplary academic figures in both research and education. This program offers NSF’s most esteemed awards to support these individuals in establishing a robust foundation for a lifetime of leadership, seamlessly integrating educational advancements with cutting-edge research.
For those in the burgeoning field of data science, the CAREER program is particularly relevant. It champions individuals poised to lead their departments and organizations into the future of this data-driven domain. The NSF strongly encourages applications from all CAREER-eligible institutions and notably welcomes submissions from women, underrepresented minority groups, and persons with disabilities, fostering a diverse and inclusive data science community.
Moreover, the NSF CAREER program serves as a gateway to further recognition through the Presidential Early Career Awards for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE). Each year, 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 a PECASE award is based on three core criteria: pioneering research that pushes the boundaries of science, engineering, and technology relevant to the sponsoring agency’s mission; a commitment to community service evidenced through scientific leadership, educational contributions, or community engagement; and a dedication to STEM equity, diversity, accessibility, and inclusion. These awards not only drive innovation but also enhance public awareness of science and engineering careers, reinforce the importance of fundamental research to national goals, and underscore the pivotal role of science and technology for the nation’s prosperity. Individuals cannot directly apply for PECASE; instead, participating federal agencies initiate nominations from their CAREER awardees.
Within NSF, a select group of up to twenty-six CAREER awardees, identified as potential leaders in academic research and education for the 21st century, are nominated for PECASE each year. The White House Office of Science and Technology Policy ultimately makes the final selections and public announcements of the PECASE awardees. For aspiring data science leaders in academia, the NSF CAREER program and the subsequent PECASE nomination represent significant milestones in a trajectory of impactful research and educational leadership.
