The three extramural scientific divisions support research programs at facilities that include diabetes, endocrinology, metabolic and genetic diseases; digestive diseases, nutritional disorders, and obesity; and kidney, urologic, and hematologic diseases.

In addition to these extramural Divisions, the Division of Intramural Research conducts research and training within the Institute's laboratories and clinical facilities in Bethesda, Maryland, and at the Phoenix Epidemiology and Clinical Research Branch in Arizona.

The Division of Extramural Activities provides administrative support and overall coordination. A fifth division, the Division of Nutrition Research Coordination, coordinates government nutrition research efforts across the NIH and with other Federal agencies.