Our Mission

The Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI) is a federally and state-funded research institute and a member of the Leibniz Association. Scientists from around 40 countries work together at FLI to advance research on the biology of aging at the molecular, cellular, organismal, and systems levels.

We investigate the fundamental mechanisms of aging, striving to uncover its root causes. Our mission is to identify and modulate the fundamental processes that drive organismal aging, with the ambition of opening new paths toward interventions that improve health, prevent or delay disease onset. By targeting aging at its biological roots — rather than responding to diseases after diagnosis — we aim to delay or prevent multiple age-related conditions simultaneously. 

We are committed to scientific excellence, to returning the knowledge and innovations we generate to society, and to fostering a curiosity-driven, open, welcoming, and inclusive environment in which all staff members can thrive.

Our Vision

Our vision is to drive fundamental discoveries in the biology of aging through ambitious research with the potential to transform how societies age. 

We focus on major scientific challenges — aging and the exposome, the microbiome, the immune system, and the evolutionary biology of aging across diverse species — to uncover new pathways toward resilience, prevention, and healthy longevity. 

We invest in talent, foster a vibrant and diverse scientific environment, and enable discovery through strategic collaborations and cutting-edge technologies. Beyond the bench, we are committed to translating our discoveries into societal benefit: sharing knowledge openly, fostering innovation and the transfer of technologies, and engaging the public in dialogue about the science of aging.

Contact

Dr. Daniele Barthel

Administrative Director

Prof. Dario Riccardo Valenzano

Scientific Director

Birgit Oechsner

Executive Assistant