The Ohio State University has approved the creation of the Institute on Aging, a new university-wide effort that will unite faculty, clinicians, and educators from across campus to strengthen scientific discovery, improve care and help meet the growing health needs of an aging population.
“The launch of the Institute on Aging marks an exciting moment for Ohio State,” said John M. Horack, vice president for research. “By bringing together faculty and clinicians from across disciplines, we are creating a collaborative environment that will accelerate scientific discovery, enhance the quality of care, and prepare the next generation of leaders in aging research while delivering meaningful impact for individuals and their families.”
Approved by the University Senate, the effort builds on the Ohio State’s strengths in science, medicine, and community engagement, connecting more than 50 faculty members across 13 colleges and more than 25 centers, programs, and collaborative initiatives.
Ohio is among the fastest-aging states in the nation, increasing demand for more effective approaches to conditions such as dementia, cancer, cardiovascular disease, mobility loss, and complex chronic illness. At the same time, advances in longevity science are reshaping how researchers understand the biological processes that influence health across the lifespan.
“Establishing an Institute for Aging represents a bold investment in discovery, a commitment to improving the lives of aging adults and creating a defining legacy for both Ohio State and Ohio communities we serve,” Ashley Rosko, MD Medical Director Oncogeriatrics, Professor Division of Hematology, Institute on Aging Co-Director
By aligning expertise in medicine, engineering, neuroscience, public health, and the social sciences, the effort will accelerate interdisciplinary work that links fundamental discovery with real-world application. That includes expanding clinical trials, improving models of care for older adults, strengthening caregiver support strategies, and advancing prevention-focused approaches that help reduce the burden of disease.
Initial priorities include supporting pilot projects, expanding shared scientific infrastructure, enhancing data integration, strengthening partnerships with healthcare systems and community organizations, and preparing competitive proposals for major funding opportunities through the National Institutes of Health and other partners.
“Leveraging the depth and breadth of aging science expertise at Ohio State, the Institute will drive a holistic approach to long-term health, driving innovation from every angle to deliver transformative solutions.” Christin Burd, PhD Professor, Department of Molecular Genetics and the Department of Cancer Biology and Genetics, Institute on Aging Co-Director.
The initiative will also contribute to workforce development by creating new training opportunities for students, clinicians, and researchers focused on aging-related challenges, while supporting innovation that can be translated into practice across communities.