National Institute on Aging > Research > Research Programs (Extramural)
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Division of Aging Biology (DAB)

The DAB program fosters extramural research and training focused on elucidation of the basic biochemical, genetic, and physiological mechanisms underlying the process of aging and age-related changes in humans and in animal models. This includes investigations of the gradual or programmed alterations of structure and function that characterize normal aging and investigations of how these adverse changes become risk factors for or accompany age-related conditions and disease states. The scientific research portfolio is managed by three Branches: Genetics and Cell Biology, Aging Physiology and Resources. In addition to the specific areas of interest indicated below, DAB also supports interdisciplinary research and integrated studies on the mechanisms that affect aging at the organism scale, including systems biology.

Research Areas

DAB research focuses on:

  • Animal Models
  • Genetics
  • Immunology
  • Endocrinology
  • Physiology
  • Cell Structure and Function
  • Metabolic Regulation
  • Cardiovascular Biology
  • Musculoskeletal Biology

Program Initiatives

The NIA strongly encourages researcher initiated applications, which form the bulk of the funding provided to the extramural community. These applications can be submitted using the parent forms (PA-06-181, PA-06-180 and PA-07-070). In addition, DAB encourages research in specific current areas of emphasis, as exemplified by recent Requests for Applications.  
 

Current Funding Opportunities

Funding mechanisms including Requests for Applications and Program Announcements such as R21-Exploratory/Development Grants.

The DAB Diversity Travel Assistance Program provides travel assistance to underrepresented minority investigators to present research findings at scientific conferences.

  
 

Nathan Shock Centers of Excellence

This Core Center Grant program was established in 1995 to enhance well-developed institutional programs in basic research on aging. Centers are renewed every 5 years, if funds are available and enough high quality proposals are received in response to a Request for Applications.   
 

Division of Aging Biology (DAB)

Information on DAB's scientific programs and their respective points of contact. DAB's programs are housed in the Office of the Associate Director, Genetics and Cell Biology Branch, and Systems Branch.  
 

For more information about DAB, contact: BAPquery@NIA.NIH.GOV.