Our history

“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 University of Waterloo's commitment to advancing aging research is embedded within its University of Waterloo Strategic Plan (2013)(PDF), which 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. 

Aging research had already been thriving across campus, with innovative studies ranging from cellular research to the societal effects on aging populations. To further support this vital area, the Network for Aging Research (NAR) was established in 2014, aiming to foster collaboration among faculty, researchers, and students to advance aging-focused initiatives and interdisciplinary partnerships.

NAR promotes innovative research by offering catalyst grants, organizing conferences, and creating networking opportunities for interdisciplinary engagement. These initiatives aim to address the multidimensional nature of aging, from individual health concerns to broader societal and policy implications.

The NAR is designed to serve as a central hub for aging research, promoting collaboration across the university's diverse academic disciplines and supporting research in the affiliated colleges. It also works closely with the Faculty of Health and the central administration to secure resources, funding, and visibility for aging research initiatives.

The foundation of NAR was informed by an environmental scan conducted in 2014, which engaged 59 faculty and staff members to explore key areas of aging research and funding opportunities. The result was the establishment of seed grants to encourage innovative projects and collaboration within the university community. Since its inception, NAR has successfully contributed to elevating aging studies at the University of Waterloo, providing valuable support to researchers across diverse academic backgrounds.

Under the leadership of Dr. Steven Mock as its founding director, followed by Dr. Paul Stolee, and currently Dr. Plinio Morita, appointed in June 2023, NAR continues to play a pivotal role in the university’s aging research ecosystem. This leadership fosters a supportive environment for ongoing advancements in aging studies and ensures the university’s contributions remain at the forefront of international aging research.

NAR is supported by the University of Waterloo central administration and the Faculty of Health.

For more information about the Network for Aging Research and opportunities for involvement, visit the contact page.