The mission of the Epidemiology Branch includes research, professional service, and training. With regard to its research mission, the Branch conducts epidemiologic research focusing on reproductive, perinatal, and pediatric health endpoints to identify underlying etiologic mechanisms, at-risk subgroups, and interventions aimed at diagnosing or treating disease. Research initiatives utilize state-of-the-art methodologies for empirical investigation.
The Branch provides service to the NIH community, other governmental agencies, academic and research institutions, professional societies, and the general public on issues relevant to the mission of the NICHD. The Branch also supports the NIH training mission by participating in the summer intern and intramural research training award programs.