NINDS | 2021-2026

Strategic Plan

Investing in the Future of Neuroscience

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Our Mission

The mission of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (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.

Message from the Directors & Overview

A joint message from the NINDS Director and Deputy Director describing advances supported by NINDS and highlighting the new strategic framework for investing in the future of neuroscience research. 

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Neuroscience Research

NINDS supports and performs a broad array of rigorous and important neuroscience research from fundamental studies of basic nervous system function to studies to improve treatments and prevent neurological disorders.

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Cross-cutting Strategies

Several core strategies are important across all NINDS scientific goals and will be essential to implementation of the Strategic Plan.

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Training and Workforce Diversity

NINDS funds and conducts neuroscience research training and career development programs to ensure a vibrant, talented, and diverse neuroscience workforce. 

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Communications

NINDS promotes dynamic communication and diverse stakeholder engagement to accelerate scientific progress and reduce the burden of neurological disorders.

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Workforce Culture

NINDS aspires to create and sustain a supportive work culture for the Institute’s workforce that becomes the model for biomedical research and the neuroscience community. 

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Stewardship

Effective and efficient stewardship across all programs, together with thoughtful priority setting, planning, evaluation, and continuous data-driven improvement, is integral to all NINDS policies and programs.

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Process

The strategic planning effort charged taskforces to assess the current NINDS landscape and sought input from a wide variety of stakeholders to help inform the Strategic Plan. 

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Trans-NIH Initiatives

NINDS-wide strategic planning guides activities supported and conducted across the Institute, including research, research training and career development, and communication.