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Mission

The National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) is a leading authority in the field of genomics. Our mission is to accelerate scientific and medical breakthroughs that improve human health. We do this by driving cutting-edge research, developing new technologies, and studying the impact of genomics on society.

To support this mission, NHGRI:

  • supports the development of resources, approaches, and technologies that will accelerate genomic research on the structure of genomes, the biology of genomes, and the biology of disease;
  • supports developments that will use genomics to advance the science of medicine, and that will incorporate genomics to improve the effectiveness of healthcare;
  • supports research in several cross-cutting areas, including the ethical, legal and societal implications of genomics research, bioinformatics, and research training and career development.
Interest in Diversity

NHGRI is committed to enhancing the pool of individuals from underrepresented backgrounds who have the training to pursue careers in genomics research. This area of research is associated with tremendous challenges and opportunities for improving human health, including the chance to explore some of the most profound ethical, legal, and social issues of our time. There are extraordinary career opportunities in genomics research.

Diversity-Targeted Programs
Director's Statement
Eric D. Green, M.D., Ph.D.
Eric D. Green, M.D., Ph.D.
Director's Statement
NHGRI has a strong history in supporting scientific workforce diversity. Our Diversity Action Plan (DAP) grants program aims to enhance the pool of underrepresented scientists who are prepared to pursue genomics-related scientific careers. The program is associated with some of NHGRI’s largest, most scientifically diverse, and most visible research programs. Since its inception in 2002, the NHGRI DAP program has included over 1400 participants at one dozen different academic institutions. Recently, the program was revamped to provide better integration with other NHGRI training programs, including the addition of an annual meeting at which all NHGRI-supported trainees will participate along with their mentors. NHGRI remains deeply committed to diversifying the genomics research community.