Picture Above: Dr. Tom Oder

Dr. Tom Oder, Professor of Physics, recently returned from a three-year assignment as Program Director for the National Science Foundation (NSF).

Dr. Oder was responsible for the oversight of the Condensed Matter Physics program, the largest in the Division of Materials Research. When proposals for funding were submitted to the NSF and directed to his program, Dr. Oder’s job was to ensure they complied with requirements and general NSF policies. He then had to identify at least three experts to review each proposal according to the NSF merit review criteria. Upon completion of the review, Dr. Oder would prepare a written analysis of the reviews and make a recommendation on whether or not the program should receive the requested funding. 

Of all the things Dr. Oder did, two experiences stood out most. The first was playing a role in supporting exciting and transformative research projects across the span of the United States. The second was being in a position to mentor young researchers and those from underserved communities. 

Now that he has returned to teaching at YSU, Dr. Oder is pleased to bring back a wealth of new knowledge and information on the grant proposal process. He has an enhanced understanding of what makes a compelling proposal that stands a strong chance for funding. He also brings back new experience in fiscal management, having spent the last 12 months of his assignment as Program Leader for Condensed Matter Physics, managing funds in the tens of millions of dollars. Finally, Dr. Oder learned a lot about how to connect with funding agencies in both the federal and private sectors and with other researchers across the country. He looks forward to putting this knowledge to good use at YSU.

You can reach Dr. Oder by email or by phone at 330.941.7111.