The National Eye Institute (NEI), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is the lead federal agency for vision research, fostering scientific breakthroughs at the frontiers of vision research.
Research conducted at NEI (Intramural Research Program)
The NEI intramural research program conducts research in vision science and ophthalmology at our laboratories and clinical center located on the main NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland. We also develop the next generation of vision researchers through institutional research training and clinician-scientist development. The intramural program functions as an in-house resource of scientists and clinicians tackling high-risk, high-reward research.
Research funded by NEI
NEI funds research and training opportunities at universities, medical centers, and other institutions both across the country and around the world through research grants, career development awards, and other mechanisms. We support research grants and training awards to scientists across the nation.
Fellowships and training
Be a part of our research! NEI has career opportunities for vision researchers and internships, fellowships, and other training programs for students and professionals at our labs in Bethesda, MD.
Vision research events
NEI hosts and participates in a number of seminars focused on the latest research to prevent and treat eye diseases. Seminars encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing between researchers, advance and accelerate research progress, and strengthen connections within the scientific community.
Vision research news
Thanks to the work of NEI scientists and grantees, we’re constantly learning new information about the causes and treatment of vision disorders. Get the latest updates about their work — along with other news about NEI.
Our Impact
NEI leads federal government efforts to eliminate vision loss and improve quality of life through vision research. NEI-supported research has led to major advances in preventing and treating eye diseases and visual disorders.
Collaborations and Partnerships (Technology Transfer)
The NEI Technology Transfer Office facilitates collaborative relationships between NEI investigators and the broader scientific community.
Learn about our clinical trials
NEI leads or supports dozens of clinical trials and studies each year. Clinical studies can help researchers learn more about eye problems, while clinical trials help researchers try out new ways to test for and treat eye diseases. NEI studies have been instrumental in finding new ways to test and treat eye diseases.
Questions?
Want to learn more about NEI’s research? Interested in getting involved? Get in touch with NEI’s Division of Intramural Research.
- Office of the Scientific Director - Oversees intramural scientific programs and labs.
- Office of the Clinical Director - Oversees the Eye Clinic at the NIH Clinical Center and NEI-led clinical trials.