Approaches for Evaluating the NRC Resident Research Associateship Program at NIST

The NRC Resident Research Associateship Program at NIST provides two-year temporary appointments for outstanding scientists and engineers. This book describes program applicants and awardees and offers suggestions for an in-depth assessment of career outcomes. Preliminary investigation indicates that outreach efforts produce more qualified applicants than NIST has slots to fill, the pool of applicants is increasingly diverse, and many Research Associates go on to permanent positions at NIST. The agency should conduct a more thorough evaluation of the program, including an assessment of outreach to potential applicants, individuals who decline an award, the program's impact on the careers of awardees, and the benefits of the program to NIST and the broader scientific and engineering community.Table of Contents Front Matter Executive Summary 1 Overview 2 Recruitment and Selection 3 Research Associates’ Experiences 4 Careers 5 Preliminary Results and Recommendations Bibliography Appendix A Committee Members Biographical Information Appendix B Survey of Earned Doctorates Appendix C Data on Science and Engineering Doctorates Appendix D Application for Research Associate Programs Appendix E Examination of Applications to Prospective Programs Appendix F Ph.D. Fields by Broad Category Appendix G Names of Laboratories Appendix H Research Associateship Final Report Appendix I Evaluation of Associate by Adviser