The mission of the Packard Foundation is to provide the nation's most promising early-career scientists and engineers with the freedom and funding to explore new frontiers in their fields. This effort reflects David Packard's recognition of the importance of robust university-based science and engineering programs, rooted in his understanding of the crucial role these disciplines played in the success of the Hewlett-Packard Company.
The Packard Fellowships for Science and Engineering support early-career professors in pursuing innovative research across a wide range of scientific and engineering disciplines, including physics, chemistry, mathematics, biology, astronomy, computer science, earth science, ocean science, and engineering. The program encourages risk-taking and exploration by offering flexible funding with few restrictions and minimal reporting requirements. Each year, 50 university presidents are invited to nominate two professors each, emphasizing the foundation's dedication to fostering the development of promising talent in academia.