Leibniz Institute on Aging - Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI)
We conduct research on the biology of aging at the molecular, cellular, and systems levels.
Aging Research at FLI
To study the biological foundations of aging — from molecules to entire organisms - we conduct multi-disciplinary research, combining evolutionary approaches, diverse model systems, and cutting-edge omics technologies.
Institute's Research Infrastructure
... combines state-of-the-art core facilities, core services, animal facilities, and specialized units into a powerful network for excellent research.
Research in Dialogue
Whether scientific conferences, lectures, or events for students and teachers, as well as our series Science & Society, or the Long Night of Sciences, and MINT Festival for the general public – we offer insights into our work in aging research.
Join our Team
Become part of our team—apply for our open positions
News
The black box of epigenetic clocks
Epigenetic clocks are important tools in modern aging research. Typically, they use characteristic DNA methylation patterns in the genome to precisely predict a person's age and infer conclusions about the individual’s biological aging processes. However, why this works so well and what biological mechanisms are behind it remain unclear. Researchers at the Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI) have now investigated the basis of established epigenetic clocks and developed a new model, TFMethyl clock, that combines predictive accuracy with improved biological interpretability. The study, published in the journal Nucleic Acids Research, provides new insights into molecular aging processes and opens new possibilities for research into age-related diseases.
Dynamic population breeding improves turquoise killifish husbandry
The short lifespan of the turquoise killifish (Nothobranchius furzeri) makes it an important model organism for aging research. However, its husbandry and breeding present research institutions with challenges: The fish have a short lifespan and must be continuously bred, while at the same time their genetic diversity must be preserved. Researchers at the Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI) have therefore developed the Dynamic Population Breeding (DPB) method. This new breeding concept improves the survival rate of offspring, reduces differences between breeding cohorts, and thus creates an important foundation for reproducible and sustainable research on biological aging.
2026 Körber Prize for Sara Wickström
Professor Sara Wickström, Chair of the Scientific Advisory Board (SAB) at the Leibniz Institute on Aging – Fritz Lipmann Institute (FLI), will be awarded with the 2026 Körber Prize for European Science.
In memoriam: Antonino Cattaneo (1954–2026)
The Leibniz Institute on Aging mourns the sudden loss of a neuroscientist who helped make killifish aging research possible.
Research for healthy aging
Research Groups
Publications
Leibniz Graduate School
Research Infrastructure
Cooperations
Administration
Upcoming Events
FLI Colloquium: Prof. Dr. Wendy Garrett
Postdoc Circle Invites: Prof. Dr. Miguel Andrade
Long Night of Sciences 2026
FLI Seminar: Dr. Matthias Schewe
Dr. Matthias Schewe, Medical Faculty Mannheim, University of Heidelberg, will speak about "Running on Empty: P2RX7-Driven Stem Cell Exhaustion in the Aging Gut" on Wednesday, August 26, 1:00 pm at the FLI.
Our Institute
Here you can learn more about our mission and vision, our Code of Conduct, the FLI’s organizational structure, our history, public procurement, and how to find us.
Further Information
Research Coordination
From Research to Application
Vacancies
Join Our International Team