Research Divisions & Contacts
Extramural research at the National Institute on Aging is directed by divisions. Learn more about each research division below:
Division of Aging Biology
The Division of Aging Biology (DAB) plans and supports molecular, cellular, and genetic research on the mechanisms of aging through various NIH grant mechanisms and contracts. It also supports resource facilities that provide aged animals and banked tissues for use in aging research.
Division of Behavioral and Social Research
The Division of Behavioral and Social Research (DBSR) supports social, behavioral, psychological, and economic research and research training on the processes of aging at both the individual and societal level. BSR fosters cross-disciplinary research, at multiple levels from genetics to cross-national comparative research, and at stages from basic through translational.
Division of Geriatrics and Clinical Gerontology
The Division of Geriatrics and Clinical Gerontology (DGCG) supports clinical and translational research on health and disease in the aged, and research on aging over the human life span, including its relationships to health outcomes. DGCG foci include translational research for the development of new interventions for age-related conditions, prevention and treatment of multiple chronic conditions in the elderly, and studies that help to promote evidenced based geriatric care and inform policies affecting older adults.
Division of Neuroscience
The Division of Neuroscience (DN) fosters and supports extramural and collaborative research and training to further the understanding of neural and behavioral processes associated with the aging brain. Research on dementias of old age—in particular Alzheimer's disease—is one of the program’s highest priorities.
Division of Extramural Activities
The Division of Extramural Activities (DEA) manages NIA's grants and training policies and procedures, including oversight of grants and contract administration, scientific review, and committee management functions. It serves as primary liaison for NIA with the NIH Office of Extramural Research and with other Institutes that share research interests. NIA's extramural training programs, career development programs, small business innovation research and technology transfer programs, and other special programs are managed by DEA. The Division handles scientific integrity and ethical questions in research and manages the National Advisory Council on Aging.