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NCSES: 30 Years of U.S. Science & Engineering Data Leadership

Under John Gawalt's leadership, NCSES evolved with the digital age, empowering a wider audience to engage with and use its data. Its impact extends from academia to policy, shaping the U.S. science and engineering enterprise.

In this image we can see the information board, buildings, shed, trees, electric cables and sky...
In this image we can see the information board, buildings, shed, trees, electric cables and sky with clouds.

NCSES: 30 Years of U.S. Science & Engineering Data Leadership

The National Center for Science and Engineering Statistics (NCSES) stands as the U.S.'s premier source of data on its science and engineering enterprise. With 13 principal federal statistical agencies, each having a specific focus, NCSES' unique role is to provide comprehensive, reliable data on the nation's S&E landscape.

For 30 years, John Gawalt led NCSES, serving as its director from 2012 until his retirement in early April. His tenure marked a significant period of growth and innovation for the center. NCSES' evolution mirrors the broader changes at the National Science Foundation (NSF), which has consistently supported scientific research and improved data collection.

NCSES' data, meticulously collected and disseminated in various formats, is now more accessible than ever. The internet has democratized access, allowing a wider audience to engage with and use the data. This shift has transformed how NCSES interacts with the public, valuing them as partners and participants.

NCSES' work is diverse, encompassing Human Resources Statistics, Research and Development Statistics, and biennial reports. It supports a grants program to advance analytic and methodological research, ensuring its data remains cutting-edge. The center's impact extends beyond academia, with its data influencing evidence-based policy and state-level investments in research infrastructure.

NCSES' role in the U.S. science and engineering enterprise is indispensable. As it continues to evolve, driven by technological advancements and the dedication of its team, NCSES remains committed to providing high-quality, transparent data that serves the public and informs policy.

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