NICHD supports investigators at universities and other research institutions to further its public health mission. This support enables more scientists to conduct biomedical, behavioral, and interventional research aimed at improving the health and wellbeing of children, families, and communities throughout the world.
NICHD’s extramural research has provided answers about the genetic causes of many types of intellectual and developmental disabilities, such as Rett syndrome and Fragile X syndrome. It also has helped inform medical care for pregnant women and newborn babies and rehabilitation practices for those affected by injury, trauma, and other disorders.
![Division of Extramural Research (DER)](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20210113120609im_/https://www.nichd.nih.gov/sites/default/files/inline-images/scientific-branches_0.jpg)
Division of Extramural Research (DER)
Supports research on development, growth, and behavioral and emotional wellbeing.
![National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research (NCMRR)](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20210113120609im_/https://www.nichd.nih.gov/sites/default/files/inline-images/ncmrr%201.jpg)
National Center for Medical Rehabilitation Research (NCMRR)
Advances knowledge on rehabilitation from injury, trauma, and disabilities.