The National Eye Institute (NEI), part of the National Institutes of Health (NIH), is the lead federal agency for vision research, fostering scientific breakthroughs at the frontiers of vision research.
Research conducted at NEI (Intramural Research Program)
The NEI intramural research program conducts research in vision science and ophthalmology at our laboratories and clinical center located on the main NIH campus in Bethesda, Maryland. We also develop the next generation of vision researchers through institutional research training and clinician-scientist development. The intramural program functions as an in-house resource of scientists and clinicians tackling high-risk, high-reward research. Learn about our research labs, current projects, and staff
Research funded by NEI
NEI funds research and training opportunities at universities, medical centers, and other institutions both across the country and around the world through research grants, career development awards, and other mechanisms. We support about 2,100 research grants and training awards to scientists across more than 150 institutions worldwide. Learn more about funding opportunities
![Woman getting an eye exam.](https://www.nei.nih.gov/sites/default/files/styles/400px_square_crop/public/2019-01/eyeExam.jpg?itok=wfmPWk3z)
Join a research study or learn about our clinical trials
Clinical studies — research studies that involve people — can help researchers learn more about eye problems. One type of study, called a clinical trial, helps researchers try out new ways to find and treat eye diseases.
![Researchers in a lab doing an experiment](https://www.nei.nih.gov/sites/default/files/styles/400px_square_crop/public/2019-03/laboratory.jpg?itok=QR5_c4ow)
Fellowships and training
Be a part of our research! NEI has career opportunities for vision researchers and internships, fellowships, and other training programs for students and professionals at our labs in Bethesda, MD.
![Research Laboratory](https://www.nei.nih.gov/sites/default/files/styles/400px_square_crop/public/2019-01/researchLabs.jpg?itok=6na6s8K3)
Collaborations and Partnerships (Technology Transfer)
The NEI Technology Transfer Office facilitates collaborative relationships between NEI investigators and the broader scientific community.
![](https://www.nei.nih.gov/sites/default/files/styles/400px_square_crop/public/2019-03/icon_red_questions_BG_0.png?itok=qnqjQHhE)
Questions?
Want to learn more about NEI’s research? Interested in getting involved? Get in touch with NEI’s Division of Intramural Research.