The Office of Extramural Programs manages the funding activities of NINR that occur outside of NIH, in research institutions across the country and internationally. A major program priority is the integration of biological and behavioral research. Three dimensions - promoting health and preventing disease, managing the symptoms and disability of illness, and improving the environments in which care is delivered - cut across the seven broad science areas. 

Program Directors within OEP serve as a contact between NINR and the extramural research community, serve as a resource for applicants and investigators, and monitor research progress. The Chief of OEP is Dr. Barbara Smothers.