Edward J. Masoro, Ph.D., was a true pioneer in research on the biology of aging. Through his research, commentaries, mentoring, and leadership, he catalyzed the growth of what is now called Geroscience. On July 11, 2020, Dr. Masoro died at the age of 95.
The first half of Dr. Masoro’s scientific life, beginning with dissertation research at UC Berkeley, was devoted to the study of lipid metabolism. His career was marked by a rapid rise in faculty rank at Queens University in Canada, Tufts University School of Medicine, the University of Washington, and the Medical College of Pennsylvania, where he served as the Chair of Physiology and Biophysics from 1964 to 1973.
Dr. Masoro joined UT Health San in 1973 as the founding Chair of the Department of Physiology. He literally brought aging research to San Antonio. In this new role, he led a cadre of scientists and leveraged university resources to probe the physiological changes that accompany aging. After stepping down from the Chair of Physiology in 1991, Dr. Masoro turned his attention to ensuring the continuation and growth of research on aging at UT Health San Antonio. He obtained an NIA Geriatric Academic Leadership Career Award that provided the support to create the Aging Research and Education Center, now known as the Sam and Ann Barshop Institute for Longevity and Aging Studies.
Arguably, Dr. Masoro’s greatest legacy is his lasting influence on others, not only by direct mentorship, but also by the example he set as a scientist, leader, and colleague. He was a dynamic and passionate teacher recognized with numerous teaching awards. He was passionately devoted to truth and unafraid of speaking it, whatever the consequences. Those who knew him well recall innumerable manifestations of his empathy, gratitude, and love.
Please join us today in honoring Dr. Masoro through a gift to a memorial fund in his name, the Edward J. Masoro, Ph.D. Memorial Fund. We thank you in advance for your gift or pledge to help this fund grow and keep his memory close to our hearts. This memorial fund will allow his legacy to continue. He is fondly remembered and greatly missed.
If you have any questions or concerns, please contact Philip Garza, Senior Director of Development, at (210) 567-2598.