Three Marcus Institute researchers are seated at a table, each looking at a computer screen. One of the screens is facing us and displays image of three brain scans. Behind the people, the same image is projected on a large screen.

Research

At the Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute for Aging Research, Harvard Medical School-affiliated researchers uncover answers to the most pressing challenges of aging.

Changing the Standard of Care

Aging happens to all of us. That’s why it's essential to challenge what we think we know about human aging. The Marcus Institute is an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, and we partner with leading research organizations around the world. Our research portfolio ranks us in the top 10 percent of institutions funded by the National Institutes of Health.

Explore Our Aging Research

Our Vision and Innovation

The Marcus Institute has been focused on finding answers to the concerns of older adults since before geriatrics formally started as a specialty. Throughout our history, we have challenged common assumptions about aging and uncovered innovative treatments and best practices that help seniors live longer, more active, and more fulfilling lives.

Read About Our Innovations

Who We Are

With senior faculty who are renowned investigators and a pipeline of talented mid-level and junior faculty bringing exciting new ideas, skills, and energy to the Marcus Institute, we are poised to continue our important contributions to the health and well-being of older adults for decades to come.

Meet Our Researchers

Join a Research Study

Would you like to take part in research about how people age, and how we can improve quality of life as we get older? The Marcus Institute often seeks participants for clinical trials about cognitive impairment, falls, fractures, and more.

View Current Study Opportunities

Research Areas

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Biomarkers and Genetics

The Marcus Institute is uncovering the human genetics of age-related disease to allow for more personalized treatments.

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Brain Health

Our brains control not just thinking and cognition, but all our body systems. The Marcus Institute is seeking ways to prevent, reverse, treat, and manage brain-related changes in the functioning of older adults. 

Learn About Our Work
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Data Science and Technology

Biostatisticians and data scientists at the Marcus Institute collaborate with clinical investigators to design and conduct clinical trials and observational studies in aging.

See How We Work With Big Data
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Health Care Services and Policy

Through our research, the Marcus Institute seeks to effect broad change in policies that impact the care of adults by developing interventions to improve health care quality and reduce costs.

See the Impact of Our Work
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Medication

Our bodies process medications differently as we age. As a result, Marcus Institute researchers are examining how to use medications to support quality of life as we age, while avoiding the risks that can come with prescription drugs.

Learn About Our Research
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Physical Health and Function

Maintaining physical function is key to independent living and a fulfilling lifestyle at all stages of life. The Marcus Institute is researching the best ways to retain health, strength, and mobility in older adults.

Explore What We Do

1965

the Marcus Institute was founded

$98 million

total Marcus Institute grant portfolio

122

faculty and staff members

130+

papers published annually in peer reviewed journals
A man and a woman researcher review data on a laptop.

2023-2024 Postdoctoral Position Applications Now Open

Three postdoctoral positions are available for the Harvard Translational Research in Aging Training Program, funded by the Marcus Institute's NIA Institutional Research Training Grant. Award recipients may be eligible to apply for the NIH Loan Repayment Program. Funding supports salary, mentored research activities, coursework, and seminars. Letters of intent are due November 10, 2023 at 5:00 p.m.

View the Requirements