Responses due November 24, 2023
The National Institutes of Health (NIH) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) inviting feedback on a proposed update to its mission statement. NIH is seeking input from groups throughout the scientific research, advocacy, and clinical practice communities; those employed by NIH or at institutions receiving NIH support; and the public on a proposed revised mission statement. The bolded language reflects the differences between the current and proposed mission statements.
- Current mission statement: “To seek fundamental knowledge about the nature and behavior of living systems and the application of that knowledge to enhance health, lengthen life, and reduce illness and disability.”
- Proposed revised mission statement: “To seek fundamental knowledge about the nature and behavior of living systems and to apply that knowledge to optimize health and prevent or reduce illness for all people.”
Input sought about the proposed revised mission statement includes, but is not limited to, the following:
- Feedback on whether the proposed new mission statement reflects the goals and objectives as outlined in the NIH-Wide Strategic Plan for Fiscal Years 2021-2025.
- Suggestions for specific language that could be added to the proposed mission statement and why.
- Feedback on any specific language that could be removed from the proposed mission statement and why.
NIH encourages organizations (e.g., patient advocacy groups and professional societies) to submit a single response reflective of the views of the organization or its membership.
All comments must be submitted electronically on the submission website. Responses must be received by November 24, 2023.
Please direct any questions to RFIMissionStatement@nih.gov.