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National Eye Institute

We Bring
Vision to Life

NEI powers cutting-edge vision research that makes a human impact. Learn how NEI funding is leading to breakthroughs in innovative fields like gene therapy.

See our impact

About NEI

The mission of the National Eye Institute is to eliminate vision loss and improve quality of life through vision research.

Vision Research at work

Supporting Visionaries

NEI supports the next generation of scientists and innovators in vision research. Get an inside look at how NEI-funded scientists find their footing, and change lives, in vision research.

Uncover our impact

Research and Training

  • Research Labs and Branches

    NEI scientists are part of the National Institutes of Health Intramural Research Program (IRP), the largest biomedical research institution in the world. From eye disease to gene therapy, our staff scientists, fellows, and students are discovering the future of vision research. 

    See our research labs and branches

  • Training Opportunities

    Interested in vision research? NEI has a broad range of opportunities for students and professionals, including internships and fellowships, and training programs at our labs in Bethesda, Maryland. We also support opportunities at institutions throughout the country.

    Find training opportunities

Learn about research and training

Eye Health Spotlight

Teen Video Contest Accepting Submissions

High school students throughout the United States are invited to explore the world of science through the National Eye Institute’s Eye on the Future Teen Video Contest. The contest is now accepting submissions through Sunday, April 19, 2026, or once the first 300 submissions have been received. Winners in each category will receive a cash prize.

Learn more

Grants and Funding

  • Research Priorities

    Our research is focused on the leading causes of blindness and impaired vision. NEI supports research, trials, studies, and career development in these critical categories.

    Explore research priorities

  • Find Funding

    NEI funding helps our country’s most prominent vision researchers reach their fullest potential. Explore our full list of training and career development grants, fellowships, and other funds for students and professionals.

    Learn how to fund your research

  • How to Apply

    Get an overview of the application process, read tips on how to develop your proposal, and see current funding opportunities and research priorities. 

    Learn how to apply

Learn about grants and funding

Eye health

  • Healthy Vision

    Protecting your vision is more than an investment in your health; it’s an investment in your quality of life. Thankfully, there are steps we can all take to safeguard our sight. Get eye health tips, learn about how vision works, and discover the different types of eye care professionals.

    Learn healthy vision habits

  • Eye Conditions and Diseases

    Looking to learn more about an eye condition or disease? Browse our resource page to get information on symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and more.

    Learn about eye conditions

  • Vision Rehabilitation

    Millions of people in the United States are living with a visual impairment. A visual impairment can’t be fixed with glasses, contacts, or other treatment methods. Vision rehabilitation can help people with a vision impairment improve their quality of life and stay independent.

    Learn about vision rehabilitation

  • Clinical Trials

    Every year, we lead or support dozens of clinical trials and studies focused on eye diseases. Participating in a clinical trial or study can help researchers provide new treatments, learn new information, and find new ways to help. Learn about clinical studies, find opportunities to participate, and explore the impact of past studies.

    Learn about clinical trials

Learn about eye health

Sharing our Mission

  • Eye Health Education for All

    The National Eye Health Education Program (NEHEP) is our initiative to educate professionals and the public about the importance of eye health. The program is focused on sharing the benefits of early detection, early treatment, and vision rehabilitation with people at the highest risk of eye disease and vision loss. Find ways to get involved, meet our planning group, and learn about NEHEP’s history and goals.

    Learn about NEHEP

  • Start a Healthy Vision Movement

    Do your part to spread the word about eye health. Our materials have been created by experts at NEI to help spread the word about the importance of vision protection. Download resources, toolkits, get disease-specific materials, and try our virtual reality eye disease experience.

    Explore our outreach materials

Education and outreach opportunities

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