Key points from article :
The UK has a strong research presence in the biology of ageing, but identifying the top institution in this field is challenging. The British Society for Research on Ageing (BSRA) analyzed its membership data to gauge research activity across the country.
A total of 56 UK institutions have at least one BSRA member. The University of Birmingham and University College London (UCL) have the highest number of members, followed by Aston University and the University of Oxford in third place. Imperial College London ranks fifth, while King’s College London, the University of Liverpool, and the University of Westminster share sixth place.
The University of Birmingham has a diverse team studying ageing, including researchers from its Department of Inflammation and Ageing, such as Prof. Janet Lord. The university also hosted the BSRA’s 73rd Annual Scientific Meeting in 2024, bringing together experts from across the country to share findings.
UCL has a long history in ageing research, with influential scientists shaping the field as early as the 1920s. The university established the Institute for Healthy Ageing in 2004, which continues to study ageing and related diseases under the leadership of Prof. Jürg Bähler.
David Weinkove, Chair of the BSRA and professor at Durham University, congratulated Birmingham and UCL while encouraging researchers from underrepresented institutions to join the BSRA. He stressed the importance of expanding research and applying findings to improve health in later life.
Founded in 1939, the BSRA is one of the world’s oldest ageing research organizations. It supports scientists through funding, conferences, and networking opportunities, fostering collaboration to advance knowledge on ageing and age-related diseases. By promoting high-quality research, the BSRA plays a key role in improving health and longevity.
