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More Treatments for All People More Quickly

We conduct research and support activities that address long-standing challenges in translational research so that new treatments and other health solutions reach people faster.

Latest News

Read our latest research news or follow coverage of our translational science activities through national and local media.

New Drug Screening Funnel Could Speed New Therapies for Gaucher Disease, Parkinson’s

October 11, 2024 - NCATS News

  • Assay Development and Screening Technology (ADST)
  • Our Impact on Drug Discovery and Development
  • Our Impact on Rare Diseases

A three-step drug-testing process created by NIH scientists and their partners could find new therapies faster for Gaucher disease and Parkinson’s disease.

NCATS N3C Study Shows Health Factors Before COVID-19 Infection May Predict Long COVID Risk

September 10, 2024 - NCATS News

  • Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) Program
  • Our Impact on Big Data

NCATS researchers found the strongest predictor of getting long COVID may be the use of health care services before a COVID-19 infection. 

Early Puberty may be Linked to a Common Chemical Used in Personal Care Products

September 10, 2024 - NCATS News

  • Toxicology in the 21st Century (Tox21)

The age when girls hit puberty has been falling at an alarming rate for decades, and scientists have struggled to explain why.


Featured Events

NIH Women in Science badge displayed above the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences logo. The badge displays three women, standing on a hill illuminated by constellations, holding hands above their heads.
NCATS Women in Science Leadership Panel with Astronaut Kate Rubins

November 20, 2024 - Webinar

Time: 9–11 a.m. EST

Join us on Nov. 20, 2024, for an NCATS Women in Science panel discussion featuring an all-woman panel of NIH institute directors and special guest NASA Astronaut Kathleen “Kate” Rubins, Ph.D., M.S. The dynamic discussion will highlight the journeys of accomplished women in science, explore their experiences, and offer valuable insights to inspire the next generation of women pursuing careers in STEM. NCATS Director Dr. Joni Rutter will also sit down with Rubins for a fireside chat to talk about her experiences in space and beyond. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear from trailblazing leaders about the challenges and rewards of a career in science, and how they’re shaping the future for women in research and innovation.


Advancing Translational Science

Our Impact

Learn how our work speeds research and improves health. Key areas include big data, clinical trials and rare diseases.

Research Activities

Explore our research labs, projects and collaborations that are advancing translational science. Our largest program is the Clinical and Translational Science Awards (CTSA) Program.

Training & Education

Enhance your knowledge of translational science through programs, activities and resources offered by NCATS and our partner institutions.


Resources for You

Whether you're a researcher, an aspiring translational scientist or an interested member of the community, find information and materials important to you.


Director's Corner

Joni L. Rutter, Ph.D.

Director's Message

A Community Plan for Advancing Translational Science to Address Unmet Public Health Needs

September 10, 2024

NCATS Director Joni Rutter announces the release of the NCATS Strategic Plan for 2025–2030.

About the NCATS Director

Joni L. Rutter, Ph.D., is the director of NCATS at NIH. Rutter oversees the planning and execution of NCATS complex, multifaceted programs.

Previous Director's Messages

Search all Director's Messages by topic and year.

Subscribe to NCATS’ Community Update

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Last updated on October 15, 2024