New name underscores commitment to scientific rigor and leadership in the biology of aging

NEW YORK, May 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- The Academy for Health and Lifespan Research (AHLR, "the Academy") today announced it is changing its name to the Academy of Geroscience. The change marks a significant step forward in the organization's mission to define and elevate the scientific foundation of the biology of aging.

The new name reflects the Academy's deepened commitment to advancing geroscience – an interdisciplinary field focused on understanding how the biological processes of aging drive the onset and progression of chronic diseases. By targeting aging itself, geroscience aims to extend healthspan and transform how age-related conditions are prevented and treated.

Following a year-long evaluation of the rapidly evolving aging research landscape, the Academy concluded that widely used terms such as "longevity" and "healthspan" are often inconsistently defined and not always grounded in scientific frameworks.

"The field is at an inflection point," said Nir Barzilai, President of the Academy. "There is extraordinary promise in the science of aging, but also increasing noise. To realize that promise, we must elevate awareness of geroscience as a distinct, evidence-based field and ensure that research on healthspan, longevity, and aging biology is grounded in scientific rigor. Our new name reflects that commitment."

Founded to convene leading scientists and clinicians, the Academy serves as a trusted voice in aging research. Its members have helped shape modern understanding of aging biology as a primary driver of chronic disease.

By adopting the name Academy of Geroscience, the organization aims to:

• Establish a clear and scientifically grounded identity for the field
• Distinguish evidence-based research from hype and misinformation
• Promote credible, collaborative science that advances human health
• Strengthen understanding of aging biology

The Academy will continue to unite global leaders, publish consensus insights, and support efforts that accelerate progress in geroscience.

"This is more than a name change," added Risa Starr, Executive Director of the Academy. "It's a statement of purpose – to bring clarity to the field and ensure aging research is guided by scientific integrity and delivers real-world impact."

For more information, please visit academyofgersocience.org.

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SOURCE Academy of Geroscience