About the Office of AIDS Research

Who We Are

The Office of AIDS Research (OAR) coordinates HIV/AIDS research across the National Institutes of Health (NIH). The NIH provides the largest public investment in HIV/AIDS research globally. 

As HIV crosses nearly every area of medicine and scientific investigation, the response to the HIV pandemic requires a multi-Institute, multidisciplinary, global research program. OAR provides scientific coordination and management of this research program. 

What We Do

OAR is authorized to—

• Establish research priorities. OAR works across the NIH and with the scientific and HIV communities to establish the scientific research priorities for the global fight against HIV.
• Develop the strategic plan for HIV research. OAR produces the NIH Strategic Plan for HIV and HIV-Related Research, which identifies research priorities for NIH-funded intramural and extramural research.
• Ensure that funds are invested in the areas of highest scientific priority. Based on the strategic plan, OAR plans and evaluates the NIH-wide research portfolio. OAR identifies opportunities and addresses gaps to guide the HIV research agenda.
• Address emerging needs. OAR convenes stakeholders, encourages collaboration, and catalyzes innovation to address emerging scientific and public health challenges.
• Oversee, coordinate, and manage all NIH HIV-related research. OAR coordinates the scientific, budgetary, legislative, and policy components of NIH HIV/AIDS research.

OAR Factsheet

About the Office of AIDS Research

OAR is located in the Office of the NIH Director, Division of Program Coordination, Planning, and Strategic Initiatives (DPCPSI).