Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) Assignment Opportunities at the U.S. National Science Foundation, Directorate for Mathematical and Physical Sciences (NSF MPS)

NSF Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR)
NSF Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR)

Posted on Aug 14, 2026

The position recruited under this announcement will be filled under the following appointment option(s):

Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) Assignment: Individuals eligible for an IPA assignment with a Federal agency include employees of State and local government agencies or institutions of higher education, Indian tribal governments, and other eligible organizations in instances where such assignments would be of mutual benefit to the organizations involved. Initial assignments under IPA provisions may be made for a period up to two years, with a possible extension for up to an additional two-year period. The individual remains an employee of the home institution and NSF provides the negotiated funding toward the assignee's salary and benefits. Initial IPA assignments are made for a one-year period and may be extended by mutual agreement.

It is NSF policy that NSF personnel employed at or IPAs detailed to NSF are not permitted to participate in foreign government talent recruitment programs. Failure to comply with this NSF policy could result in disciplinary action up to and including removal from Federal Service or termination of an IPA assignment and referral to the Office of Inspector General.

This opportunity is open only to individuals eligible for appointment under the Intergovernmental Personnel Act (IPA) Mobility Program. Applicants must meet all IPA eligibility requirements at the time of application. In accordance with the U.S. National Science Foundation requirements, IPAs must be United States citizens.

MPS is particularly interested in candidates with demonstrated experience in strategic leadership, research administration, innovation, and collaboration across academia, industry, and government.

MPS welcomes candidates with strong scientific expertise in any area of research supported by the directorate:

Interested individuals should submit the following materials:

• Current resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
• Brief statement of interest highlighting relevant experience and areas of expertise
• Current contact information

Application materials should be submitted to: mps-jobs@nsf.gov

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until positions are filled. Be advised that IPA participants are expected to work onsite at headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia and will be eligible for either one year of per diem allowance, in accordance with U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) rates, or a round-trip household goods move to support the rotational assignment.

We encourage you to share this opportunity broadly with qualified colleagues and professional networks. Questions regarding IPA opportunities may also be directed to Lindsey Moraz, Excepted Service Unit Chief, Office of the Chief Human Capital Officer (OCHCO) at lmoraz@nsf.gov.

Thank you for your interest in supporting the mission of the U.S. National Science Foundation.

See more open positions at NSF Small Business Innovation Research / Small Business Technology Transfer (SBIR/STTR)