Skip to content

About NEI

The National Eye Institute (NEI) is America’s leader in vision research. Founded in 1968, our mission is to eliminate vision loss and improve quality of life.

Mission and Leadership

For more than 50 years, NEI has been on the front lines of vision research. Learn about our mission and meet the leaders guiding our work. 

  • Our Mission

    NEI’s mission is to eliminate vision loss and improve quality of life through vision research. Learn how we’re bringing us closer to a world without vision loss by advancing the science that safeguards our sight.

  • Our Leadership

    NEI’s leadership guides the work that moves us closer to a world without vision loss. Meet the team members behind our mission and learn more about their careers and contributions. 

Our Impact

From Lab to Life

The eye is the proving ground for a full-body breakthrough. See how NEI is supporting the discovery of sight-saving treatments and improving the quality of life for people living with vision impairments.

Experience our impact

Learn and Spread The Word

NEI is America’s source for expert information on eye health. Learn about the eye, common conditions and diseases, and help us spread the word about our monthly eye health observances. 

  • Promote Eye Health in Your Community

    Use our tools and resources to educate your community about eye health and safety. We’ve got fact sheets, posters, articles, and more.

  • February is Low-Vision Awareness Month

    Join us in recognizing this month’s eye health observance to help people make the most of their vision.

More Support for NEI Research

Donate to Support Our Research

NEI is allowed to accept donations from the public, and all donations go to our Gift Fund, which is only used to support vision research. Your gift could help us train new scientists or test new treatments as part of a clinical trial. 

Find out how you can help

More from NEI

  • Advisory Committees

    The scientists on our advisory committees help guide our research, training, and other programs. Committees include the Board of Scientific Counselors, National Advisory Eye Council (NAEC), and NEI Women Scientists Advisory Committee (WSAC).

  • 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.

Last updated: January 28, 2026