What is the best source for university research and development information on US institutions administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF)?

The higher education research and development survey is indeed the best source for university research and development information on US institutions that is administered by the National Science Foundation (NSF). This comprehensive survey collects data from a wide range of universities and colleges, providing insights into various aspects of research and development activity within the higher education sector. It includes statistical information on funding sources, research expenditures, and the academic units engaged in R&D.

This survey is instrumental for understanding trends in research funding and development at academic institutions, contributing to policy-making and strategic planning within the education and research communities. It is specifically designed to reflect the R&D environment in universities, ensuring that the data is relevant and useful for stakeholders in the academic and governmental sectors.

Other options do not provide the same level of comprehensive and targeted research and development information about US higher education institutions. CENSUS data, for instance, pertains to demographic and economic information rather than specific university research expenditures or development activities. The survey of research and development expenditures at universities and colleges may seem similar but lacks the thorough national scope characteristic of the NSF's main survey. STAR metrics focuses on the impact of federally funded research, serving a different purpose and audience than the R&D survey which specifically targets higher education.