Victor McCrary

Victor McCrary is a Professor and Vice President for Research and Graduate Programs at the University of the District of Columbia. He serves as Vice Chair of the National Science Board and has led transformative initiatives in science policy, STEM workforce development, and diversity in STEM. His career spans federal advisory roles, leadership in scientific organizations, and advocacy for equitable education.

• Doctorate in Chemistry, Howard University
• Master of Engineering in Engineering Technology Management, University of Pennsylvania
• Bachelor of Arts in Chemistry, The Catholic University of America

McCrary’s research focuses on national security-related STEM training, diversity in scientific leadership, and policy frameworks to address global S&E talent gaps. He has shaped national strategies through his work on the National Science Board's Vision 2030 initiative and partnerships with institutions like the National Science Foundation.

His publications and presentations highlight trends in domestic STEM capacity building, global competition in critical technologies, and systemic barriers to talent development. Key themes include internet access disparities, mentoring infrastructure, and economic resilience of STEM jobs.

• Fellow, American Chemical Society
• Joseph Wharton Award recipient (2022)
• Howard University Graduate School Distinguished Alumni Award (2017)
• Johns Hopkins University NOBCChE Distinguished Lecture (2016)

McCrary has advised on K-12 STEM programs through grants like the Air Force Office of Scientific Research partnership (2023) and served on advisory boards for institutions like the Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligent Systems. He has delivered commencement speeches at education centers in Washington, D.C., and championed HBCU research capacity building.