National Science Foundation Conflict of Interest Problems With Grants to Short Term Employees
PAD-81-16
Published: Jan 15, 1981. Publicly Released: Jan 15, 1981.
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Highlights
GAO reviewed the National Science Foundation's (NSF) policies and procedures for precluding conflicts of interest in its grant award process when the Foundation's short term employees are involved. The Foundation augments its permanent professional staff with specialists who serve in noncareer positions for 1 to 2 years. Recruited from colleges, universities, industry, and Government, these specialists are usually appointed as program officers with firstline authority for grant proposal evaluation. They are usually researchers who have been given or could receive Foundation grants.
Recommendations
Recommendations for Executive Action
| Agency Affected | Recommendation | Status |
|---|---|---|
| National Science Foundation | The Director of NSF should take appropriate remedial or disciplinary action when people fail to report conflict of interest situations or otherwise violate prescribed standards of conduct. |
Closed – Implemented
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
|
| National Science Foundation | The Director of NSF should require that the Office of Audit and Oversight formally refer to the NSF General Counsel for prompt resolution all conflict of interest matters that it finds while monitoring the grant activity associated with scientists who are being considered for, are serving in, or have recently completed short term NSF appointments. |
Closed – Implemented
When we confirm what actions the agency has taken in response to this recommendation, we will provide updated information.
|
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Topics
Bid evaluationConflict of interestsGrant administrationPersonnel managementFederal employeesGrant programsPolicies and proceduresProfessional staffAuditsScientists