The document summarizes a discussion with the Council on Governmental Relations regarding the National Science Foundation’s (NSF) Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) Program as of February 2017. The program’s principal value stems from its ability to bring in individuals with specialized knowledge from academic and research communities, fostering innovation and expertise within NSF while enhancing its connection to the scientific community and serving as a conduit for trust and collaboration. IPAs comprise a significant portion of NSF’s workforce, particularly among scientific staff, and their integration with experienced federal employees creates synergies vital to advancing NSF’s mission.
Key points of interest include Congressional and Inspector General scrutiny over NSF’s use of IPAs, with attention to accountability measures like performance assessments and training. Financial aspects are also highlighted: in FY 2016, IPAs accounted for $42.2 million in costs, with ongoing pilot programs aimed at increasing institutional cost sharing, eliminating reimbursement for lost consulting, and limiting NSF-funded travel for IPAs. The new policies prompt important questions around their impact on program quality, institutional and individual burdens, and overall cost implications. The document concludes by soliciting feedback from partners on the program’s value, the effect of policy changes on IPA participation, and recommendations for improving administrative processes. Assessment and stakeholder engagement are set to continue through FY 2017 to guide future policy decisions.
