Conflicted about #NSFfunded

Don’t get me wrong…I love NSF, love getting funded by NSF, and think it’s important for scientists and the public to understand the important role that NSF plays in our society. “The NSF funds research and education in science and engineering, through grants, contracts, and cooperative agreements. The Foundation accounts for about 20 percent of federal support to academic institutions for basic research.¹” Support by NSF or other sources is acknowledged in association with papers and presentations. This is all good. The hashtag seems to be a way to reach out more broadly and show the wide-ranging work that the agency supports.

That sounds good, by my own reactions have been more negative.

These are my own quirky issues, and I don’t know if others share my views. I just wanted to put them out there. First, I don’t feel comfortable adding the tag onto social media posts because it feels like bragging. I’m guessing this reflects something in my upbringing, and I’m not suggesting that people who add the tag are doing anything wrong. Second, when I see the hashtag on posts from others, it tends to stir up miasma of jealousy, resentment and inadequacy (even though I have also benefited from NSF funding). I’m not proud of this, and don’t really understand it. I’m generally happy for people when they post their excitement about receiving a new grant! There’s just something about that tag…it seems like it is smugly mocking me.

…ok, I should get back to writing some proposals now 😉

 ¹ source: https://www.nsf.gove/awards/about.jsp, Accessed 15 October 2021.