Our T32 program provides a rigorous, interdisciplinary training environment designed to develop independent investigators capable of advancing aging research across the full translational spectrum—from mechanistic discovery to clinical implementation.

Our fellows gain the following skills:

• Deep understanding of aging biology and geriatric syndromes
• Training in translational research methodologies
• Experience across laboratory, clinical, and computational settings
• Mentorship from leaders across disciplines
• Preparation for independent funding and academic careers  

Our Current Fellows

Inga M. Antonsdottir, DNP, PhD

Dr. Antonsdottir’s work focuses on sleep and circadian rhythm disturbances in individuals living with dementia and their care partners. Her research integrates clinical trials and behavioral interventions to address one of the most burdensome and under-treated aspects of dementia care. Her DNP and PhD are from the Johns Hopkins School of Nursing. When not working, she enjoys spending time with her dog and being outdoors.

Research approach:

• Dyadic clinical trial design (patients and caregivers)
• Behavioral and pharmacologic sleep interventions
• Translational frameworks for implementation in clinical settings

Translational impact:
Her goal is to develop scalable, evidence-based clinical strategies that improve sleep health and accelerate translation into routine dementia care. 

Michael R. Bene, PhD

Dr. Bene investigates the molecular and functional mechanisms underlying skeletal muscle aging, with a focus on inclusion body myositis (IBM) and age-related functional decline. He has a BS in biomedical engineering from Drexel University and a PhD in integrated biomedical sciences from UT Health San Antonio. In his free time he enjoys music, reading, and staying physically active.

 

Research approach:

• Multi-omics (metabolomics, transcriptomics, proteomics)
• Mechanistic studies of muscle aging pathways
• Translational studies in both animal models and human cohorts

Translational impact:
His work aims to identify therapeutic targets that preserve muscle function and improve mobility in older adults.

Kwadwo Bonsu, PhD

Dr. Bonsu develops computational and mathematical approaches to understand the genomic and epigenetic mechanisms driving aging and age-related disease. He got his BS from UMBC and his PhD in chemical and biomolecular engineering from UC Irvine. He's a multi-instrumentalist and music producer, and also an avid powerlifter in his spare time.

 

Research approach:

• Long-read sequencing and bioinformatics
• Large-scale cohort analysis (e.g., UK Biobank, All of Us)
• Modeling epigenetic regulation and mitochondrial genetics

Translational impact:
His work seeks to identify clinically relevant genetic and epigenetic markers that inform risk prediction and therapeutic strategies in aging and cancer.

Kaleb Burch, PhD

Dr. Burch’s research integrates biomechanics, wearable technologies, and rehabilitation science to address mobility decline in aging populations. He received his BS in engineering from Messiah University and his PhD in mechanical engineering from University of Delaware. When not working he enjoys sports, family time, and making homemade ice cream.

 

Research approach:

• Motion analysis and biomechanical modeling
• Wearable sensors and assistive technologies
• Translational rehabilitation strategies

Translational impact:
He aims to improve diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment of mobility impairments, enabling more precise and scalable rehabilitation interventions.

Christine Delligatti, PhD

Dr. Delligatti studies molecular mechanisms of skeletal muscle aging, with a focus on protein quality control and contractile function. She got her BS in biological sciences from Webster University and her PhD in cellular and molecular physiology from Loyola University Chicago. In her free time, she likes hiking, crocheting, reading and gaming.

 

Research approach:

• Biochemical and molecular assays of protein modification
• Functional and structural muscle studies
• Investigation of serpin-mediated pathways

Translational impact:
Her work is directed toward identifying therapeutic targets that preserve muscle function and improve physical resilience in aging.  

Former Fellows

Our alumni represent a growing network of clinician-scientists and researchers advancing aging science across academia, industry, and clinical practice. Graduates of our program have:

• secured NIH K and R-level funding,
• transitioned to independent faculty positions,
• led interdisciplinary aging research programs, and
• contributed to clinical and translational innovation in aging.

Former fellow Anicca Harriott, PhD, investigates how extreme environments, such as spaceflight, accelerate aging-related musculoskeletal decline, using advanced tissue engineering and microphysiological systems. She received her BS in biophysical sciences from Regent University and her PhD in biochemistry and molecular biology from University of Maryland. Her work bridges space biology and terrestrial aging to develop interventions for frailty and musculoskeletal dysfunction in older adults.