NSF director resigns

Sethuraman Panchanathan, the director of the National Science Foundation, announced his resignation on Thursday. Internal documents obtained by Nextgov/FCW and sent by Panchanathan in a staff memorandum confirmed his departure.

“It has been a privilege to work with the amazing leadership team during my tenure at the NSF,” an internal email said. “Despite the many challenges over the past five years, including COVID, return to site, and [Sexual Assault Prevention and Harrassment Response Program], the incredible staff of NSF has always risen to the occasion. I am extremely grateful to all of you.”

Further in the email, Panchanathan recounted the achievements of the agency during his tenure, such as launching 27 artificial intelligence institutes and advancing numerous scientific research discoveries.

He also noted that NSF has always been an “efficient” agency, and said that, although the U.S. needs continued investments in scientific research, “a thoughtful approach to efficiencies and investments is incredibly important.”

“I believe that I have done all I can to advance the mission of the agency and feel that it is time for me to pass the baton to new leadership,” he concluded.

The NSF press office also confirmed Panchanathan’s exit. He also released a separate public statement that was similar to the internal notice — thanking the NSF staff and supporting the nation’s competitive edge in science and technology — but omitted mentions of “efficiency.”

“I am deeply grateful to both Presidents for the opportunity to serve our nation,” Panchanathan said in his statement. “I am also thankful for the strong bipartisan support of Congress and the tireless efforts of the amazing staff at NSF.”

Panchanathan was initially appointed as director of the NSF in 2019 during President Donald Trump’s first administration. He also served under President Joe Biden. The agency has drawn controversy in the last few months following the Trump administration’s firing of dozens of employees at NSF and cancellation of over 400 grant awards following a realignment of agency research priorities.

NSF employees have previously spoken to Nextgov/FCW about the black box surrounding recent decision-making regarding the agency’s workforce and funding initiatives.

“Panch has been conveniently absent throughout this whole time,” said an internal email an NSF worker sent to staffers obtained by Nextgov/FCW, referring to Panchanathan’s presence at the agency during the organizational changes that occurred earlier this year.

"U.S. National Science Foundation Chief of Staff Brian Stone will perform the duties of the Director until a permanent replacement is appointed by the White House," an agency spokesperson said.

Editor's note: This article has been updated to include an NSF statement on the agency's leadership following Panchanathan's departure.