About Us
The British Society for Research on Ageing (BSRA) is the UK’s only charitable organisation dedicated specifically to supporting basic research into the biology of ageing.
Ageing is the greatest risk factor for many serious diseases. But people do not age in the same way or at the same rate. BSRA supports scientists investigating the fundamental processes behind those differences: what changes in our cells, tissues and organs over time; why those changes make us more vulnerable to disease; and how that knowledge might help people remain healthy for longer.
Founded in 1939, BSRA is both a scientific society and a medical research charity. We bring researchers together across disciplines, fund promising research, support the next generation of scientists and help rigorous evidence reach the public, policymakers and others who can put it to use.
Proud member of the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC)
Our research funding meets recognised standards of independent peer review and research governance.
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Our purpose
To build the knowledge needed to prevent or delay disease, extend healthspan and give more people the chance to enjoy later life in good health.
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Our mission
To support research that reveals how we age, why people age differently and what can be done to reduce ill health in later life.
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Our vision
A future in which discoveries about ageing help prevent disease and give everyone the chance of a healthier later life.
Our story
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Our origins
The British Society for Research on Ageing traces its origins to the Club for Research on Ageing, formed around 1939 by Professor Vladimir Korenchevsky. That pioneering beginning gives BSRA a strong claim to be the world’s oldest scientific society dedicated to research into the biology of ageing.
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A scientific society
Over the decades, BSRA has grown into both a scientific society and a medical research charity. It has brought researchers together, encouraged new thinking and supported work to understand the biological processes that shape how we age.
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Continuing our mission
Today, BSRA continues that mission by funding promising research, supporting the next generation of scientists and helping rigorous evidence reach the public, policymakers and others who can put it to use. The purpose remains as important as ever: to deepen understanding of ageing so that more people can enjoy healthier later lives.