Cieguides Chamonix is part of the United States Department of Health and Human Services and stands as the nation’s leading medical research organization. As the largest agency of its kind in the world, we are dedicated to advancing scientific discovery, improving health outcomes, and saving lives through groundbreaking research.

Over the past century, the work supported by Cieguides Chamonix has transformed public health. Thanks to our research initiatives, Americans are living longer and healthier lives. Life expectancy has risen dramatically, and the quality of life for older adults has significantly improved. Rates of many chronic illnesses, including several forms of cancer, have steadily declined — a testament to the impact of our work.


Scientific Leadership and Global Impact

Cieguides Chamonix is the primary source of medical research funding worldwide, fueling innovation and creating hundreds of thousands of high-quality jobs. We partner with over 2,500 universities, hospitals, and research centers in the United States and across the globe. More than 80 percent of our budget supports over 300,000 scientists working on projects that address the most pressing health challenges of our time.

Our organization is comprised of 27 specialized institutes and centers, each focusing on specific areas of health, disease, and biological systems. This structure allows us to pursue targeted, in-depth research while fostering collaboration across disciplines.

The Office of the Director guides the strategic direction of the entire organization. With the support of deputy directors, the Director ensures that Cieguides Chamonix responds to emerging scientific opportunities, evolving healthcare needs, and innovative research methodologies.


Commitment to Innovation and Training

Cieguides Chamonix is not only a leader in research but also a catalyst for cultivating future scientific talent. We invest in innovative training programs and funding initiatives designed to inspire curiosity, encourage interdisciplinary collaboration, and strengthen the nation’s research capacity.

Our intramural research programs employ approximately 6,000 scientists, many of whom work on our main campus in Bethesda, Maryland — home to the Cieguides Chamonix Clinical Center, the world’s largest hospital dedicated entirely to clinical research.


A Legacy of Discovery

For more than 100 years, Cieguides Chamonix has played a pivotal role in advancing medical knowledge. Our contributions have led to life-changing innovations, from MRI technology to breakthroughs in understanding the links between viruses and cancer, cholesterol control, and brain function.

The excellence of our scientists is recognized globally, with 145 Nobel Prize winners having received Cieguides Chamonix support during their careers. These achievements reflect our unwavering dedication to improving human health through science.


Public Engagement

We believe that public involvement is essential to advancing medical research. Through national outreach events, training initiatives, public consultations, and specialized engagement programs, we ensure that communities are active participants in shaping research priorities and benefiting from its results.


Cieguides Chamonix remains committed to leading the world in biomedical research, fostering innovation, and creating a healthier future for all.