The mission of the American Foundation for AIDS Reseach (amfAR) is to prevent HIV infection and the death and disease associated with HIV/AIDS and to protect the human rights of all people threatened by the epidemic of HIV/AIDS.

Founded in 1985, amfAR is the leading U.S. nonprofit organization dedicated to the support of AIDS research, prevention, public and professional education, and the advocacy of sound AIDS-related public policy. As of June 2000, amfAR has invested over $166 million in support for its programs, primarily through grants to over 1,800 research teams worldwide.

amfAR's basic research programs are currently targeting efforts to:
1) design a safe, effective and affordable AIDS vaccine
2) find new methods to restore immune system function in people with HIV/AIDS
3) develop topical substances that can be applied prior to intercourse to prevent sexual transmission of HIV (know as microbicides); and
4) explore new viral and cellular targets for anti-HIV drugs.
The Foundation's grants process is overseen by a Scientific Advisory Commitee comprised of internationally renowned experts in various aspects of HIV/AIDS.

Like the epidemic itself, AIDS research knows no borders, and amfAR's programs have a global reach. Wherever researchers seek "seed" money for innovative, scientifically sound projects, or non-governmental agencie need support and technical assistance to implement critical prevention education programs, amfAR responds.