National Science Foundation is an independent agency of the United States government. It promotes science and engineering research in the United States by (1) providing fellowships (monetary awards) to indi-viduals for research and graduate study; (2) funding research institutions; and (3) supporting national research facilities, including the National Center for Atmospheric Research in Colorado, the Kitt Peak National Observatory in Arizona, and various supercomputing centers. The National Science Foundation (NSF) also funds and coordinates U.S. research activities in the Arctic and Antarctica, and it supports international research programs.
In addition, the NSF seeks to improve education in mathematics, science, and engineering. It supports programs that enhance the skills of teachers and improve curriculums (courses of study) at the elementary through high school levels. It also supports museums and adult education programs.
Congress established the NSF in 1950. A director, deputy director, and a 24-member National Science Board head the foundation. They are appointed by the president, subject to Senate approval. The agency’s headquarters are in Arlington, Virginia.
