75 Years of Advancing Neuroscience

The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) has been a cornerstone of neuroscience research since 1950.

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Since its establishment in 1950, NINDS has played a pivotal role in unraveling the complexities of the brain and nervous system. The mission of NINDS is to seek fundamental knowledge about the brain and nervous system and to use that knowledge to reduce the burden of neurological disease for all people. Through groundbreaking research, training the next generation of scientists, working closely with people with lived experience, and improving diagnosis, treatments, and prevention strategies, NINDS continues to lead the way in neuroscience discoveries. Explore the rich history of NINDS, learn more about this incredible journey, and help us imagine the future of neuroscience!


How We Fulfill Our Mission

Most NINDS-funded research happens at universities, medical schools, hospitals, and other public and private institutions. NINDS scientists also lead groundbreaking neurological research in labs and branches at NIH. Collectively, their work at NIH spans from studying the structure and function of individual brain cells to testing new diagnostic tools and treatments for people living with neurological disorders.

NINDS continues to expand our understanding of what we know abouti the brain and nervous system to improve neurological health for all people.

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two people talking

NINDS has Driven Neuroscience
Discovery for Over 75 years

Watch the Video Below to See How

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NINDS's YouTube Channel

Our History, Our Strides

Over the decades, NINDS has made significant advancements in understanding and treating a wide range of neurological disorders. From breakthroughs in understanding how brain cells communicate with one another to the development of cutting edge therapies, NINDS has been at the forefront of neuroscience discoveries. The institute’s commitment to translating research into real-world applications has improved countless lives.

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Vintage lab scene with 3 researchers in white coats working at benches with glassware and equipment. 'NINDS 75, 1950-2025' logo in corner.
A glimpse into the past: NINDS researchers hard at work, laying the foundation for groundbreaking discoveries in neurological science.

“The scientific discoveries we’ve made since our founding in 1950 have led to powerful treatments for some neurological disorders and inspired hope that, through research, better treatments will one day be available for the many still waiting. Here’s to 75 more years of neuroscience improving health for all people.”

  Walter J. Koroshetz, MD, Director of NINDS 

For three quarters of a century, NINDS has promoted and supported research into the brain and nervous system.

From breakthroughs in enzyme replacement therapy for rare genetic diseases to optimizing deep brain stimulation for epilepsy, this research has advanced our understanding of how the brain works and paved the way for effective treatments that improve lives.

Explore NINDS's Discovery Milestones

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NINDS Timeline

CELEBRATE OUR IMPACT

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75th Anniversary SynOne - Women in a lab coat looks through microscope.

Syn-One: A Window into the Nervous System

How a bold idea and smart federal investment created jobs, built a successful company, and is helping diagnose Americans in all 50 states.

Learn More about Syn-One  

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75th Anniversary DBS - Illustration of neurons firing

DBS: A Revolution in Brain Medicine

How breakthrough NINDS research and smart DBS technology are creating hope, building better lives, and helping restore movement for patients across America.

Learn More about DBS  


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A collage of images of people, lab equipment, and experiments surrounds the NINDS 75th-anniversary logo (1950-2025).

Anniversary Digital Toolkit

NINDS offers a digital toolkit, including customizable social media posts, email templates, and other resources to highlight this milestone and bring awareness to our 75 years of critical work in neurological research and care.

Digital Toolkit