Division of Extramural Research Activities

The NHLBI Division of Extramural Research Activities (DERA) provides leadership and advice to the Director, NHLBI, on developing, implementing, and coordinating extramural research contract, grant, and training program policies. The Division also develops, implements, and coordinates cross-cutting, multi-disciplinary activities in the mission areas of the NHLBI. The Division provides initial scientific merit review of research grants and contracts for the Institute, provides the Institute's program divisions with grant and contract management, provides coordination and management of the Institute's public advisory committees, and provides conference services in support of the Institute. DERA coordinates the Institute's research grant and training programs with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Advisory Council. The Division also develops and provides extramural staff training and enhances communication across the Institute regarding standardized approaches, policies, methods, and procedures. DERA represents the Institute on overall NIH extramural and collaborative program policy committees and coordinates such policies within the Institute. DERA supplies services to other Institutes and Centers fulfilling the requirement of service center agreements and manages the NHLBI Scientific Review and Evaluation Awards.

The activities of DERA affect all scientists from across the United States and internationally, who receive the NHLBI research or training support.  In 2011, the Division’s mission was further expanded by the creation of the DERA Office of Translational Alliances and Coordination, charged with accelerating the translation of basic discoveries and innovations into new diagnostics, devices, and therapeutics and with facilitating the development of new technologies via Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) initiatives and other new and innovative programs. In this role, DERA initiates and facilitates the development of SBIR and other programs focused on emerging technologies of national importance in the areas of heart, lung, and blood diseases and sleep disorders; serves as a focal point for the extramural research community for information about the NHLBI small business technology development opportunities; and facilitates strategic alliances between the federal and private sectors and other stakeholders. DERA disseminates the NHLBI vision of strategic technology development to the other NIH Institutes, Federal agencies, the small business and technology development communities, and private industry.

Operationally, DERA is organized into nine offices: Office of Extramural Policy and Review, Office of Scientific Review, Referral Office, Office of Translational Alliances and Coordination, Office of Acquisitions, Office of Grants Management, Office of Committee Management, Office of Special Projects, and Office of the Director.

For further information contact:

Division of Extramural Research Activities
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
ATTN: Web Site Inquiries
Two Rockledge Center, Suite 7100
6701 Rockledge Dr. MSC 7902
Bethesda, Maryland 20892-7902

Phone numbers are available in Abbreviated Staff Directory

Last Updated February 2012




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