Old Red Ashbel Smith building on UTMB Health campus

The Sealy Center on Aging at UTMBLeading Aging Research Since 1995

Welcome

The Sealy Center on Aging (SCOA), an independent, multidisciplinary component of The University of Texas Medical Branch (UTMB Health),  focuses on improving the health and well-being of older adults through interdisciplinary research, education, clinical care, and community engagement. Supported by endowment funds from the Sealy and Smith Foundation, SCOA encompasses over 50 Senior Fellows and more than 50 affiliated Fellows from all five UTMB schools as well as numerous institutes.

Students & Trainees
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Contact Us

Sealy Center on Aging (SCOA)
301 University Blvd.
Galveston, TX 77555-0177
Directions and Maps
Phone: (409) 747-0008
Email: aging.research@utmb.edu

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News from the Sealy Center on Aging

Call for Pepper RL5 Scholars - LOI Due March 18, 2024

Feb 15, 2024, 14:27 PM by SCOA

The UTMB Claude D. Pepper Older Americans Independence Center (OAIC) has received continuous funding since 2000. Its primary goal is to enhance physical function and independence among older adults through multidisciplinary translational research. A key aspect of its mission is to foster the development of future leaders in geriatric and aging-related research.

The Research Education Component (REC) of the Center offers opportunities for early-stage investigators to engage in mentored research experiences, aimed at supporting their progression towards securing external research funding. Scholars participating in this program will collaborate with a primary mentor and research team to devise and execute individual development plans, encompassing research projects, training activities, funding endeavors, and publication efforts. Up to 50% salary support is available.

The RL5 Scholars Program, funded by the NIH's National Institute on Aging (Grant #P30-AG024832), is an essential element of the UTMB Claude D. Pepper OAIC.
Application Process

Step 1: Letter of Intent & Biosketch – Due Monday, March 18, 2024
Interested scholars must submit the following to Brian Downer, PhD (brdowner@utmb.edu) via email for evaluation by the Pepper Executive Committee:
  • A brief letter of intent (1-2 pages) including identification of a primary mentor or mentoring team, description of research expertise, and explanation of professional goals related to aging and how participation in the Pepper Center will contribute to these goals.
  • Biosketch (for REC Scholar applicants only)

Step 2: Full Application – Due Monday, May 20, 2024
If selected to proceed, applicants must submit a comprehensive application, including:
  • Personal statement (up to 2 pages) detailing current research status, expertise, and envisioned research career trajectory over the next 3-5 years.
  • Brief description of the research project (1/2 to 1 full page)
  • Outline of training plan (1/2 page)
  • Current CV
  • Letter of support from Chair (or supervisor) affirming commitment to dedicating at least 50% effort to research during RL5 support.

Both letters of intent and full applications will undergo evaluation by the Pepper Executive Committee, along with input from internal and external advisory boards.

Services for Researchers

Schools

The Sealy Center on Aging brings together faculty across all five UTMB schools who specialize in aging-related research, education, and clinical care.

SCOA provides infrastructure and resources to foster collaborative translational research, support externally funded projects, and promote education and community outreach. SCOA supports its Core Investigators with office space, editorial services, pilot funding, research infrastructure, and administrative assistance.

Example Services

  • Administration
  • Clinical research coordination and study support
  • Community engagement and education
  • Science writing and editing
  • Logistical and meeting support, purchasing, or travel
  • Web and graphic design, social media, or advertising
  • Request information about educational programs, training, and mentorship

Complete the form below to request our services:

 Request Our Services

Associated Programs