APLU Statement on Sethuraman Panchanathan’s National Science Foundation Tenure

Washington, DC – APLU President Mark Becker today released the following statement on National Science Foundation (NSF) Director Sethuraman Panchanathan’s tenure leading the agency, following him stepping down as director.

“Dr. Sethuraman Panchanathan is an extraordinary computer scientist, leader, and public servant. We are incredibly grateful for his service on behalf of the American people and all he has done to position one of the world’s most influential and impactful scientific agencies to support U.S. innovation leadership globally.

“In his role as NSF director, he demonstrated an unmatched enthusiasm for science and used every day as director as an opportunity to share his passion for science with anyone willing to listen. Drawing on his experience as chief research officer at Arizona State University and Chair of the APLU Council on Research, he also strengthened the vital partnership between NSF and public research universities to promote new discoveries and innovations that improve lives across the globe.

“As a lifelong champion of science’s power to create new knowledge, transform lives, and improve our quality of life, we know he will continue his life’s passion of elevating human potential through innovation in whatever capacity he chooses to pursue next.”