To those interested in healthcare research in America, understanding the National Institutes of Health (NIH) represents a formidable challenge. Few books address the topic well, and most investigators follow the NIH’s trends with deep interest. Even though this book represents history from decades ago – 15 years is a long time in American politics and in research – this book remains relevant to understand the historical trends still operative in this great institution. Reading this book allows investigators to better focus on substance rather than passing fads.
It covers the organizational makeup of the 27 institutes (still present in 2025), the culture of researchers, the history up to 2008, directors during 1991-2008, and controversies operative during that era. Interviews provide the basis of many of the exploration. Overall, it provides an interesting, erudite view into what the NIH offers and how it can go off the rails, whether by itself, Congress, or the White House. Fluency in the NIH remains an essential skill for biomedical researchers, and digesting this book will help advance research for those who read it.
The National Institutes of Health: 1991-2008
By John A. Kastor
Copyright (c) 2010
Oxford University Press
ISBN13 9780199737994
Page Count: 296
Genre: Biomedical Research, Government
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