The University of Waterloo Strategic Plan (2013)(PDF) identified three emerging fields of research in which the university had the greatest potential for worldwide impact and recognition. One of these fields was aging.
Healthy, active aging is a cornerstone of research at the University of Waterloo, and occurs across all six faculties. In fact, key discoveries that advance aging research and quality of life are being made across campus; from cell to society, from youth to end of life.
The strategic plan's goal to advance aging research included the allocation of resources and support for interdisciplinary collaboration. To assist in these activities, the Network for Aging Research (NAR) was created.
The Network for Aging Research (NAR) serves as a networking resource for researchers dedicated to aging studies. NAR promotes aging-focused research through a catalyst grant program, supports events related to aging research, and facilitates networking opportunities to encourage interdisciplinary collaborations. These efforts aim to further advance the field of aging research.
NAR has a campus-wide scope and is designed to support networking and research across all six faculties, and at the affiliated colleges.
Dr. Steven Mock began NAR as the founding and interim director in 2014. In the Fall 2014 term, an environmental scan was conducted at the University of Waterloo. 59 faculty and staff members were consulted in small groups or one-on-one meetings to develop funding opportunities for aging-focused researcher at the university. The result was a set of seed grants. The current director, Dr. Plinio Morita, was appointed in the June 2023.
NAR is supported by the University of Waterloo central administration and the Faculty of Health.
To find out more about NAR or learn how you can become involved, please visit the contact us page.