Research
Overview
Many of the faculty in the Section of Geriatrics are also actively engaged in research that enhances scientific understanding of aging and the causes and treatment of illnesses that afflict older adults. Often their research is carried out in collaboration with colleagues at the Boston University School of Medicine and other schools within the university, as well as at institutions throughout the United States and the world. With the help of funding from the National Institutes of Health, our research agenda continues to grow. We place a high priority on mentoring junior investigators to ensure that they become highly competent independent investigators as their careers progress.
Our clinician-researchers publish in leading medical journals and use their research to bring innovation in teaching geriatrics and improving the care of vulnerable older adults.
Our research falls generally into the following categories:
- Chronic illness care (particularly cancer care) in older adults
- Exceptional longevity
- Innovation in geriatrics education and practice
Boston Medical Center in collaboration with Boston University, Tufts University and Joslin Diabetes Center, carries the distinction of being one of only 11 Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Centers (OAIC) funded nationwide. The Pepper Center brings experts from many disciplines together to conduct research and to train young scientists in the development of function promoting therapies for the prevention and treatment of functional limitations and disability among older adults.
In addition to the Pepper Center we collaborate with colleagues throughout Boston University, including colleagues affiliated with:
- Boston University School of Medicine
- Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine
- Boston University School of Public Health
- Boston University School of Social Work
- Boston University Alzheimer's Disease Center
- Bedford Veterans Medical Center: Center for Health Quality, Outcomes & Economic Research
- Framingham Heart Study
