Interdisciplinary network spotlight: Reimagine Ageing
We collaborate with researchers across multiple disciplines to overcome major societal challenges. In this latest post, we explore the Reimagine Ageing network.
The Reimagine Ageing network, which is co-led by Professor Sarah Astill in the Faculty of Biological Sciences, is aimed at challenging the perceptions and experience of ageing through research and collaboration.
Launched in October 2023 with funding from the Horizons Institute, it recognises the need for novel, interdisciplinary ageing-related research across Leeds.
With older populations on the rise, the Network is setting the stage to make Leeds a centre for cutting-edge and collaborative research, in areas such as disease, health and social care, engineering, design, arts, technology and society.
Rethinking ageing and wellbeing
“How do we want to age?” is a question at the heart of Reimagine Ageing.
The Network aims to change perceptions and improve experiences of ageing by mixing individuals and knowledge from diverse fields to develop solutions and grant proposals.
Three Network co-leads guide this effort, each from different faculties to ensure a well-rounded perspective and to leverage existing networks:
- Professor Sarah Astill, School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences
- Professor Anne Forster, School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health
- Associate Professor Maria Kapsali, School of Performance and Cultural Industries, Faculty of Arts, Humanities, and Cultures
A growing community for age-related research
Today, the Reimagine Ageing Network has a membership base of around 150 individuals from within the University, other regional universities, local community groups, public sector bodies, as well as organisations across Yorkshire and the UK.
It is supported by a Steering Group, which includes Dr Yannis Delis, School of Biomedical Sciences, and an Advisory Group to guide direction and future activities.
The Network has already attracted funding for a Doctoral Research Programme from the Dunhill Medical Trust, consolidating its commitment to age-related research.
Events and engagement
In its first year, the Network organised eight interdisciplinary events – both in-person and online – that attracted over 300 participants. These events cover diverse topics from how to include older adults in research studies to using data science for improved health and wellbeing.
The recent Reimagine Ageing Showcase event celebrated the Network’s progress, featuring keynote addresses, presentations and posters, based on the Network’s three research themes:
- Healthy Ageing, Digital and Healthcare Technology
- Healthy Ageing, Wellbeing and Quality of Life
- Healthy Ageing and Society
At the Showcase, artist and researcher Garry Barker from Leeds Arts University received the best poster award for his “ART and AGE” poster. You can read an interview with Garry on the Reimagine Ageing’s website.
Are you a researcher, clinician or member of the local community who’s interested in reducing inequalities in later life? You can join the network or follow updates on LinkedIn and X. You can also become a network partner.
