The National Science Foundation (NSF) Office of Inspector General (OIG) is an independent and objective oversight organization established in 1989, in compliance with the Inspector General Act of 1978. The Inspector General reports directly to the National Science Board and Congress.
We are organized into four offices with varied responsibilities: the Immediate office (Executive office and Counsel), Office of Audits, Office of Investigations, and Office of Management.
What We Do
Our mission is to provide independent oversight of the National Science Foundation to improve the effectiveness, efficiency, and economy of its programs and operations and to prevent and detect fraud, waste, and abuse.
- We audit NSF's programs and operations, as well as grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements funded by NSF.
- We share our findings and make recommendations to improve effectiveness, efficiency, and economy.
- We investigate wrongdoing involving organizations or individuals that receive awards from, conduct business with, or work for NSF.
- We investigate allegations of research misconduct.
- We keep NSF, the National Science Board, and Congress informed of our findings and recommendations, as well as the agency's progress in implementing corrective actions.
Want to learn more? View our fact sheets.
How You Can Help
Anyone can report matters of concern related to NSF programs and operations to us through our hotline. Examples of complaints include violations of laws, rules, or regulations; mismanagement; and research misconduct.