The Sealy Center on Aging at UTMB HealthLeading Aging Research Since 1995

UTMB Health is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Melissa (Missy) Morrow as Director of the Sealy Center on Aging. A renowned rehabilitation scientist and expert in aging and disability research, Dr. Morrow brings deep experience in translational science, biomechanics, and health technology. She currently serves as Co-Director of the NIA-funded Pepper Center at UTMB and will lead the center’s involvement in the new $5 million Healthy Aging and Technology (Age-Tech) Initiative. We thank Dr. Alan Landay for his exceptional service as interim director and look forward to the center’s continued growth under Dr. Morrow’s leadership.

What does it take to age well today? Join UTMB Health experts on brain health, aging research, nutrition and geriatric care as they share the latest insights, practical tips and resources for living longer and better on Wednesday, October 22, 2025 at OLLI. Free & open to the public. OLLI membership not required. Register today!

Dr. Markides contributed to this article at Daily 27 in honor of the International Day of Older Persons on October 1, 2025. Many immigrants arrive in countries like the U.S., Canada, and Australia healthier than the native-born population. But this “immigrant health advantage” often fades with time. By older age, immigrants face higher risks of chronic illness, disability, and cognitive decline—shaped by lifestyle changes, discrimination, and unequal access to care. Communities can help buffer these challenges, offering cultural and social support, though the benefits vary across countries. It is important to understand how aging, health, and caregiving intersect in these communities.

Join us for the next Data Management and Analysis Core (DMAC) for Comparative Effectiveness Research on Cancer in Texas (CERCIT) Seminar Series: "Challenges in Non-Inferiority Testing: Why It's Not Just a One-Sided Version of Superiority Testing," presented by Samiran Ghosh, Professor & Chair, Department of Biostatistics & Data Science, UT Health Houston.

Abstracts are due on October 3 for the Annual Forum on Aging. Join us at the HEC on October 16th, 4-6PM. The event provides a platform for faculty members, fellows, and students to share their ongoing aging research with the UTMB community. It is also an excellent opportunity for networking and learning about the research services offered by the Sealy Center on Aging. Each year, monetary awards are given for the best student and fellow posters.

The UTMB Center of Excellence for Professional Advancement and Research invites research faculty to the 4th Annual WE Summit on November 13, 2025, from 4:00-6:00 PM. The event aims to connect faculty with medical students for research collaboration and mentorship.