The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) is pleased to present our 2012-2016 NIDCD Strategic Plan. You may view the Plan at www.nidcd.nih.gov/about/plans/strategic/.

The NIDCD supports and conducts research and research training in the areas of hearing and balance; taste and smell; and voice, speech, and language. The Strategic Plan serves as a guide to the NIDCD in prioritizing its research investment, illustrates the current state-of-the-science, and highlights recent advances in the communication sciences. The Strategic Plan presents a series of Priority Areas and goals that represent the most promising research needs within the NIDCD's mission areas.