National Institutes of Health NIH

NIH’s mission is to seek fundamental knowledge about the nature and behavior of living systems and the application of that knowledge to enhance health, lengthen life, and reduce illness and disability.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), a part of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is the nation’s medical research agency — making important discoveries that improve health and save lives.

Created in 1887 as a one-room laboratory on Staten Island, NY, NIH was officially designated by Congress in 1930. Since then, the agency has grown to be the world’s largest source of medical research funding and the driving force behind decades of advances that have expanded fundamental scientific knowledge and improved health. 

About Science, Health, and Public Trust

This section provides perspectives, tools, and resources to improve the quality and usefulness of information about science and health for the public. The overall goal is to share strategies and best practices that might contribute to public understanding of the nature of biomedical research and its role in health.

NIH is made up of 27 Institutes and Centers, each with a specific research agenda, often focusing on particular diseases or body systems. NIH leadership plays an active role in shaping the agency’s activities and outlook

Research & Training

Science Highlights Research in NIH Labs & Clinics Training Opportunities Library Resources Research Resources Clinical Research Resources Safety, Regulation & Guidance Medical Research Initiatives Anti-Sexual Harassment

Health Information

Health Care Providers & Facilities Health Info Lines HealthCare.gov Science Education Resources NIH Clinical Research Trials and You