Seventy-five years ago, Congress first established what is known today as the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), initiating the mission and vision that drives us today: 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.
This year, as we mark this milestone anniversary, we reflect on the extraordinary advances we have achieved together and look ahead to the future of neuroscience—one defined by innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to improving lives. We invite you to explore our 75th anniversary website, watch our anniversary video, and engage with us through our digital anniversary toolkit, which includes shareable content and ways to participate in this important occasion.
View Audio Described Version of the NINDS 75th Anniversary Video
Additionally, NINDS is thrilled to bring recognition of our 75th anniversary to our participation in this year’s Brain Awareness Week from March 10–16! Since 1996, this global event—led by the Dana Foundation—has sparked curiosity and inspired people of all ages to learn about the wonders of the brain. We’re proud to join scientists and enthusiasts worldwide in sharing the progress and promise of brain research.
Transforming Neuroscience, Changing Lives
For three-quarters of a century, NINDS scientists on the Bethesda, MD campus and those we fund across the country have led the charge in unraveling the complexities of the brain and nervous system. From early discoveries in neurophysiology to cutting-edge advancements in neuroimaging and precision medicine, our research has shaped the field and paved the way for transformative treatments.
These breakthroughs are not abstract—they have real-world impact. Whether it’s improving stroke care through the development of life-saving clot-busting drugs and brain imaging to guide emergency clot-removal treatment, advancing deep brain stimulation for Parkinson’s disease, speeding the development of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) medications, or pioneering gene-targeted therapies for rare neurological disorders, NINDS-supported research has changed lives. Every discovery, every clinical trial, and every scientific milestone brings us closer to a world where neurological diseases no longer take such a heavy toll.
Powered by Collaboration
Scientific progress does not happen in isolation. NINDS engages a dynamic, and collaborative community of neuroscientists, clinicians, people with lived experience, and organizations, who work side by side to push the boundaries of what is possible. We know that the best science comes from bringing together unique expertise and perspectives—including those of people with lived experience of neurological disorders. People with lived experience are more than participants in research; they are partners in discovery. Their insights help guide the development of meaningful interventions and ensure that our research addresses the most pressing needs. NINDS continually engages with and learns from people experiencing neurological health challenges that we strive to overcome, including those with lived experience of chronic pain.
By fostering deep engagement with people with lived experience, nonprofit organizations, and the broader neuroscience community, NINDS remains focused on what truly matters—finding solutions that improve quality of life and promote better health outcomes.
A Commitment to Scientific Excellence
As we celebrate this historic milestone, we also reaffirm our commitment to scientific excellence and its sustainability. NINDS has long championed efforts that build future generations of neuroscientists, ensuring that the brightest minds have opportunities to drive discovery forward.
NINDS continues to promote scientific discovery through initiatives aimed at enhancing rigor and transparency, mentoring early-career scientists, funding cross-disciplinary research teams, and addressing research gaps essential to improving neurological health outcomes. By investing in a thriving community of scientists in our intramural and extramural programs, we not only strengthen our field but also ensure that the benefits of neuroscience research reach all people.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Neuroscience
The next 75 years hold even greater promise. This anniversary isn’t just about looking back—it’s about moving forward, together. Advances in artificial intelligence, precision medicine, and neurotechnology are transforming how we study the brain and nervous system and how we diagnose and treat neurological disorders. And, with a rapidly evolving scientific landscape, we recognize the importance of adaptability, interdisciplinary collaboration, and bold thinking and action. As we continue our journey, we invite the entire neuroscience community—scientists, clinicians, advocates, and the public—to join us in our celebration and help shape the future of neuroscience.
Here’s to the next 75 years of innovation, collaboration, and impact.