Supporting research through grants
NSF funds basic science and engineering at universities and other institutions, as well as use-inspired research. Researchers submit proposals evaluated through merit review; the agency’s principal role is providing funding and conditions for research.
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Shared research facilities
Its infrastructure portfolio includes ground-based telescopes, supercomputers, polar stations and long-term ecological sites. In 1956 it began funding projects including the National Radio Astronomy Observatory, supporting large instruments for researchers across institutions.
Training and organisation
Alongside research grants, NSF supports education and training at different levels; its Graduate Research Fellowship Program began in 1952. The director and National Science Board oversee long-range planning, and researchers can serve temporarily as programme directors.