Laurel Hester

About Laurel Hester

As an Investigative Scientist, I work with the rest of the Office of Inspector General (OIG) team to prevent research misconduct and promote scientific integrity. We conduct independent and objective investigations, and other reviews to support NSF\'s mission by promoting program economy, efficiency, and effectiveness and safeguarding the integrity of NSF programs and operations (NSF OIG mission). Prior to joining NSF, I was Assistant Provost at a small college where I managed a broad portfolio that included institutional effectiveness, assessment, accreditation, grants, and a higher education opportunity program.

Experience

1. Investigative Scientist at National Science Foundation (Nsf-oig)

   National Science Foundation Nsf

   Mar 2021 — Present · Alexandria, VA, US

   Investigative Scientists in the Office of Investigations conduct and supervise investigations of allegations related to NSF programs and operations. We work under the supervision of the Director, Research Integrity and Administrative Investigations (DRIAI) to support NSF OIG\'s mission to:(1) promote economy, efficiency, and effectiveness in administering NSF programs and operations;(2) prevent and detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in NSF programs and operations; and (3) prevent, detect, and handle cases involving research misconduct.

Education

• Swarthmore College

  B. A., Biology and History

  1987 — 1991

• University of Michigan

  Ph. D., Biology

  1992 — 2001