Research
We're transforming birth outcomes through research
Achieving our research objectives
Our research goals, while scientifically ambitious and complex, are simple in theory and realistic in scope: to end preventable maternal and infant death, to discover the causes of preterm birth and to achieve birth equity for all mothers, regardless of race or class.
March of Dimes provides annual funding to our five Prematurity Research Centers (PRCs) and four research grants mechanisms (including two career development grant programs). We also fund two annual awards which recognize distinguished achievement in the maternal-fetal health field.
March of Dimes Research updates
Read about our ongoing research and achievements in the latest March of Dimes Newsletters.
Research in focus
Genetics, epigenetics and transcriptomics of preterm birth
Postmitotic accumulation of histone variant
Exposure during Pregnancy and Preterm Birth
Prematurity Research Centers
Our five prematurity research centers (PRCs), focused primarily on prematurity research, are the heart of our research program, employing some of the most dedicated and accomplished scientists in the world to work on the most difficult and pressing scientific questions in the field—and most importantly, to find their answers.
Explore grants and awards
The four March of Dimes research grant mechanisms move along a seniority and experience spectrum, with in-training investigators receiving the PSDP (Pediatric Scientist Development Program) or RSDP (Reproductive Scientist Development Program) grants. Next, early career investigators receive the Basil O’Connor Starter Scholar Research Award, while established career scientists receive the Discovery Grants.
To complement these research grants, the Agnes Higgins Award and the March of Dimes and Richard B. Johnston, Jr., MD Prize in Developmental Biology recognize lifetime achievements in nutrition and maternal fetal health research, respectively.
Award spotlight
Award recipients
Award recipients
Making an impact with research
March of Dimes research is focused on making an impact NOW to end preventable preterm birth. We do this by approaching research in several key ways—at both the bench and bedside through descriptive research that aims to characterize and understand the factors that lead to preterm birth and other adverse outcomes; and through work that leads to mitigation and prevention of preterm birth through therapeutics, diagnostics and/or policy changes.
We know that pregnancy is complex. March of Dimes' research approach takes a whole-system view and brings the best talent and minds to bear so we can make a difference in our lifetime.
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Recent examples
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Your support helps us fund research
There are a number of ways to support research at March of Dimes. Your time—through volunteering at events, raising awareness in your community and recruiting new and impactful researcher to our network; your attention—by focused attention on how research can impact your community, your country and the global family; and your resources—by way of funding, access to your network and getting involved in research directly.
We need your help to continue developing diagnostics, therapeutics and understanding of the complex factors that lead to preterm birth, maternal and infant morbidity and mortality, and overall adverse outcomes in pregnancy. Moms, babies and their Families can’t wait for you to step up and get involved.
Join our amazing volunteer community and make a difference in maternal and infant health across the country.
Advocate for healthy moms and strong babies with March of Dimes. Join our network and make a difference in maternal and infant health.
Help save moms and babies nationwide with your donation. Support lifesaving research and advocacy at March of Dimes.
