Overview

Biogerontologists are scientists who study what happens to our bodies as we age. Some biogerontologists go one step further, seeking ways to “slow down” and even reverse the aging process.

Americans are living longer. A hundred years ago, the average lifespan was just 49 years. Today, it’s over 77 years. So the question is: Just how long can the human “machine” survive? In the year 2100, will people routinely live to be 150? 200? 500?

Biogerontologists seek to understand the aging process by studying what happens to our cells, organs and systems as we get older. Some examine the role of environment on aging. They look for the “common denominators” that influence longevity. For example, they might ask “how much impact do diet and exercise really have on the human lifespan?”

Some biogerontologists focus on age-related conditions, such as dementia and osteoporosis, to understand why older people tend to get these illnesses. Others focus on genetics, asking whether the human organism is “engineered” to last only a certain number of years.

Some biogerontologists believe that aging itself is a medical condition that will someday be “cured.” They’re looking at stem cells, vitamins, antioxidants and other things that may hold the key to stopping the aging process altogether.

As you can imagine, any “drug” that promised a longer, healthy life would be very popular. For that reason, biogerontologists have significant financial support from pharmaceutical companies.

This field that focuses on aging is still in its infancy. The “big” discoveries in biogerontology haven’t happened… yet.

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Biogerontologist

Working Conditions

Most biogerontologists work in laboratories located at universities, pharmaceutical companies and other research centers.

They design and oversee research projects, which can involve dangerous substances. The work is long, precise and often unsuccessful. There also can be pressures to reduce costs, find new funding sources and produce results faster.

Salary Range & Outlook

Depending on whether you also teach, a biogerontologist can earn $60,000 to $100,000 a year or more.

Interest in the field of biogerontology is growing as America’s “Baby Boomers” get older. However, this interest doesn’t always translate into funding for research and, therefore, jobs. Pharmaceutical companies are the most likely source of funding for biogerontology research, with most jobs happening at university-based research centers.