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About NEI
The mission of NEI is to eliminate vision loss and improve quality of life through vision research. To achieve this, NEI provides essential leadership to drive innovative research, foster collaboration, recruit and train talent, and provide vision research education.
Who we are
Leadership
NEI’s leadership guides the work that advances its mission and supports biomedical research and discovery. Meet the leaders behind the mission and learn more about their careers and contributions.
Research and grants
Research
The National Eye Institute is the lead federal agency for vision research. As part of the National Institutes of Health, NEI safeguards our sight by advancing the prevention and treatment of eye diseases and vision problems.
Funding
NEI funds research supporting our mission to eliminate vision loss and improve quality of life across the country. Learn how to apply for a grant or funding for your project.
Budget
Like other agencies in the National Institutes of Health, NEI’s funding comes from taxpayers. You can read NEI’s yearly budget requests and Congressional Justifications, which lay out our goals for the next year.
History
NEI was established in 1968. Explore significant events and legislative milestones that shaped the institute, its work, and its continuing role in advancing NIH’s mission.