Research Areas
NSF is divided into the following seven directorates that support science and engineering research and education: Biological Sciences, Computer and Information Science and Engineering, Engineering, Geosciences, Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences, and Education and Human Resources. Each is headed by an assistant director and each is further subdivided into divisions like materials research, ocean sciences and behavioral and cognitive sciences. Within NSF's Office of the Director, the Office of Integrative Activities also supports research and researchers. Other sections of NSF are devoted to financial management, award processing and monitoring, legal affairs, outreach and other functions.
- Biological Infrastructure (DBI)
- Environmental Biology (DEB)
- Emerging Frontiers (EF)
- Integrative Organismal Systems (IOS)
- Molecular and Cellular Biosciences (MCB)
Computer and Information Science and Engineering (CISE)
- Office of Advanced Cyberinfrastructure (OAC)
- Computing and Communication Foundations (CCF)
- Computer and Network Systems (CNS)
- Information and Intelligent Systems (IIS)
Education and Human Resources (EHR)
- Graduate Education (DGE)
- Research on Learning in Formal and Informal Settings (DRL)
- Undergraduate Education (DUE)
- Human Resource Development (HRD)
- Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental and Transport Systems (CBET)
- Civil, Mechanical and Manufacturing Innovation (CMMI)
- Electrical, Communications and Cyber Systems (ECCS)
- Engineering Education and Centers (EEC)
- Emerging Frontiers and Multidisciplinary Activities (EFMA)
- Industrial Innovation and Partnerships (IIP)
Environmental Research and Education (ERE)
- Atmospheric and Geospace Sciences (AGS)
- Earth Sciences (EAR)
- Ocean Sciences (OCE)
- Office of Polar Programs (OPP)
International Science and Engineering (OISE)
