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.

Over its more than 50 years, the Marcus Institute has discovered innovative treatments and proven best practices that help seniors live longer, more active, and more fulfilling lives.

We are an affiliate of Harvard Medical School, and we partner with leading research organizations around the world. Our research portfolio ranks us in the top 11 percent of institutions funded by the National Institutes of Health.

Explore Our Aging Research

Real-World Research in a Clinical Setting

Being part of Hebrew SeniorLife means that Marcus Institute researchers work in close proximity to more than 3,000 seniors each day, many of whom volunteer to participate in our studies. Their needs, struggles, and challenges drive our work. Our results lead to new services, programs, treatments, and standards of care.

Read About Our Innovations

Backed by Geriatric Experts

Behind all our research is a team of leading geriatric experts. Most of our faculty members have appointments at Harvard Medical School, with six holding full professor of medicine status. Our investigators are mentors, teachers, clinicians, and collaborators.

Meet Our Scientists

Participate in Clinical Trials

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 Focus Areas

Two men and one woman sit at a conference room table. One of the men has a laptop in front of him, the other has papers. They are engaged in conversation.

The Aging Brain

Delirium, an acute confusion often brought on by illness or hospitalization, is experienced by more than 12 million seniors in the U.S. each year. The Aging Brain Center advances medical knowledge about delirium and its connection to various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer’s.

Learn About Aging Brain Research
An older woman walks across the floor in a room. The floor is marked with a walking track. A younger woman stands next to her holding a clipboard, and another woman is nearby, seated in front of a computer.

Mobility and Falls

Falls are among the most feared part of aging – and they’re the leading cause of death from injury among older adults. The Marcus Institute is studying ways to prevent falls, particularly by exploring the connections between balance, gait, and brain function.

Learn About Mobility and Falls Research
A female senior scientist at the Marcus Institute sits looking at a computer screen while a younger male researcher looks on.

Palliative Care Research

Palliative care focuses on relieving the pain and discomfort of patients with chronic and life-limiting illness. Our clinical and policy-related research is designed to improve care and reduce suffering for patients and their families.

Learn About Palliative Care Research
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Musculoskeletal Research

The Marcus Institute seeks answers and treatments for common conditions like osteoporosis, arthritis, excessive spine curvature, loss of muscle mass, and foot disorders, along with the role of nutrition in bone and muscle health. Our researchers also explore how genetics plays a role in the aging process.

Learn About Musculoskeletal Research
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Clinical Trials

Many clinical trials of new drugs or treatments don’t account for the ways that older adults differ from younger patients. To address this gap in knowledge, the Interventional Studies in Aging Center develops and supports clinical trials that improve quality of life for older adults.

Learn About Clinical Trials Research
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Biostatistics and Data Science

The Marcus Institute includes a sophisticated data analysis function that works collaboratively with all our researchers and other investigators world-wide. The biostatistics and data science group uses quantitative methodologies and computational tools to capture, interpret, and analyze complex data.

Learn About Biostatistics

Research By the Numbers

1966

the Marcus Institute was founded

$85 million

total Marcus Institute grant portfolio

122

faculty and staff members

130+

papers published annually in peer reviewed journals
Researchers at the Hinda and Arthur Marcus Institute on Aging Research in Boston, MA

Applications Now Open for Postdoc Positions

We are now accepting applications for the Harvard Translational Research in Aging Postdoctoral Training Program, which offers a two-year training program sponsored by the National Institute on Aging. Letters of intent are due on Friday, October 14, 2022 at 5:00 p.m.

Learn More and See Program Guidelines

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