Interested in finding out more about the US government's science-grant review process without giving up your full-time university position? US scientists and researchers in academia and at non-profit organizations might consider taking a year or two off to work as a programme director at the US National Science Foundation (NSF). 'Temporary rotators' learn the federal grant-award process from the inside and review cutting-edge research ideas months, if not years, ahead of everyone else.

The NSF hires 100–150 rotators every year for stints lasting between one and three years, with 30–50 science and engineering positions open at any given time. These temporary programme directors (also called programme officers) are the NSF's main points of contact with the research community. They keep in touch with leading scientists, monitor emerging trends, and make funding recommendations on peer-reviewed grant proposals (see Nature 449, 942–943; 2007).

“Rotators are generally experienced research scientists and engineers,” says Joseph Burt, the NSF's director of human-resources management. “This means they have been published and are knowledgeable about developments in their fields.” Younger scientists and minorities are also encouraged to apply. A doctorate and at least six years' academic or non-profit research experience is required. The NSF reimburses the home institutions for the rotators' salaries, which are annualized to the calendar year.

Those interested should talk to current rotators in the field of interest to get an idea of potential staffing needs. “They welcome that contact because they are always looking to develop candidate pools, and one of the best ways is through informal communication,” Burt says.

Experience as a peer reviewer often helps. Charles Conover, a physics professor at Colby College in Waterville, Maine, credits that experience for helping him win a rotator post in the NSF's physics division. “I had been involved in the programme both as a peer reviewer and as a grantee, so the people knew who I was and had a pretty good sense that I could do the writing and analysis that the job entails,” Conover says. Positions are often posted in society newsletters, and society officials are good points of contact.

“We can bring folk in without a formal competition if we find the perfect fit,” Burt says.