Pictured: Handan Melike Dönertaş Credit: Anna Schroll.

Can you tell us about your research interests?

My research focuses on computational biology with a strong emphasis on the biology of ageing. I am particularly interested in exploring the fundamental mechanisms driving ageing and identifying biomarkers and potential intervention targets to improve lifespan and healthspan. A significant aspect of my work involves studying how the microbiome interacts with and influences the ageing process. To investigate these interactions, my lab employs computational approaches such as machine learning, predictive modelling, causal inference, and bioinformatics. We complement these methods with microbiota transfer experiments in model organisms to explore the microbiome’s causal role in ageing. Our overarching goal is to gain a systems-level understanding of ageing by integrating computational and experimental approaches, ultimately contributing to therapeutic strategies that enhance longevity and quality of life.

Where did you find the initial spark for your interest in ageing?

My interest in ageing was sparked during my MSc studies at Middle East Technical University. While I was focused on evolutionary and comparative genomics, a teammate’s project on the evolution of ageing introduced me to evolutionary genetic theories, particularly the concept of the ‘selection shadow’—the idea that the force of natural selection weakens with age, leading to the accumulation of slightly detrimental mutations and processes that contribute to ageing. This was eye-opening and led me to view ageing as a unique phenotype, although time-dependent, distinct from development. Motivated by this realisation, I shifted my thesis to compare development and ageing at the molecular level using transcriptomics. This experience initiated my journey into the biology of ageing, leading me to explore various facets such as stochasticity in ageing, drug repurposing, ageing–disease relationships, and the microbiome’s role in ageing.

You have started your own lab in January 2023 at Leibniz Institute on Ageing. What challenges did you face when you started your lab? What advice did you receive that was really important for your transition to a PI role?

Starting my lab has been both exciting and challenging. One major challenge was balancing administrative responsibilities—managing budgets, hiring staff, and securing funding—while maintaining a focus on conducting excellent research. Building a strong network of peers and mentors was invaluable advice that was particularly helpful during this transition. Having experienced colleagues to share insights and provide guidance was crucial in navigating the complexities of starting a new lab. Another critical tip was establishing a clear and supportive lab culture from the beginning. Setting expectations early, promoting open communication, and fostering a collaborative environment has been key to building a successful team and driving the lab’s progress.

How close are we to understanding and potentially intervening in the biological process that drive ageing? What are the realistic prospects for significantly delaying even stopping the ageing process?

We have made substantial progress in understanding the biological processes that drive ageing, particularly through identifying key pathways. Interventions targeting these pathways have shown promise in model organisms, and some are advancing to human applications. However, because ageing is a complex, multifactorial process involving many interconnected systems, there is still much to uncover about how these systems interact and contribute to the ageing process. In terms of significantly delaying ageing, I believe the prospects are realistic. We are likely approaching an era where interventions can extend healthspan—improving the quality of life as we age and delaying the onset of age-related diseases. However, the idea of completely “stopping” ageing is far more speculative for me. Ageing is a systemic process, and while we may be able to slow it down considerably, halting it entirely would require addressing multiple causes, including stochastic ones. In the near future, I’m optimistic that breakthroughs will allow us to delay ageing significantly and maintain health and functionality for much longer.

How important is diversity to you and what are the impediments for creating inclusive, equitable research labs and practices?

Diversity is essential to me, not only for fostering creativity but also for enhancing the quality of scientific research. Different perspectives allow us to approach questions from multiple angles, challenge assumptions, and produce more innovative science. A diverse team brings unique insights that lead to robust outcomes and effective problem-solving. However, creating truly inclusive and equitable research environments faces challenges. Structural inequalities persist in academia, such as unequal access to educational opportunities, funding disparities, and systemic biases in hiring and promotion. These issues disproportionately affect underrepresented groups, hindering their advancement in scientific careers. Overcoming these barriers requires intentional efforts in recruitment, mentorship, and establishing support systems that enable everyone to thrive regardless of background. As a PI, I am committed to fostering a lab culture prioritising inclusion, where every member feels valued and empowered. We focus on recruiting individuals from diverse backgrounds and building an environment of open communication and cultural sensitivity. For example, we implement mentorship programs tailored to support underrepresented students and provide resources to help them navigate academic challenges. Beyond the lab, I’ve been involved in outreach efforts to make computational biology more accessible to underrepresented communities, including non-English-speaking communities, and I actively support initiatives aimed at helping students from disadvantaged backgrounds succeed in science. This includes organising workshops, developing multilingual educational materials, and supporting initiatives aimed at helping students from these backgrounds succeed in science. Promoting diversity requires collective effort. Academia must address systemic issues by revisiting funding allocation, tackling unconscious bias in peer review and hiring, and ensuring that mentorship programs are accessible and effective. We should actively participate in committees and discussions focused on finding and sharing solutions to create more equitable research environments, and take part in the realisation of these solutions.

This interview was conducted by Associate Editor Aylin Bircan