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About NICHD
NICHD’s mission is to lead research and training to understand human development, improve reproductive health, enhance the lives of children and adolescents, and optimize abilities for all.
Who we are
Organization
Learn more below about the organizational structure and functions of the offices and divisions that support NICHD’s mission.
Leadership
NICHD’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.
Advisory Committees
As a federal agency, NICHD receives advice from advisory committees, task forces, boards, and commissions to help it achieve its goals.
Research and grants
Research
NICHD leads research and training to understand human development, improve reproductive health, enhance the lives of children and adolescents, and optimize abilities for all. Institute research has led to significant improvements in health knowledge and treatments, as outlined in NICHD Scientific Accomplishments.
Funding
NICHD uses grants and contracts to support research on topics related to its mission. This research is conducted by universities and other academic research centers in the United States and abroad. The institute also supports a variety of training and career development opportunities at NICHD and at other institutions.
Budget
As a federal agency, NICHD submits a justification to Congress for its overall budget each fiscal year. The congressional budget justification includes information, such as science advances, stories of discovery, and initiatives, that explains NICHD goals, programs, and necessary funding levels.
History
NICHD was established in 1962. Explore significant events and legislative milestones that shaped the institute, its work, and its continuing role in advancing NIH’s mission.