Dementia Researcher Blogs

Adam Smith - Bringing Project Management into your PhD

Adam Smith narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Adam shares practical advice on applying project management principles to PhD research. He explains how tools like risk registers, timelines, and structured planning can help students navigate the complexities of research. By adopting some of these approaches, PhD students may find it easier to organise their work, anticipate challenges, and maintain a steady pace throughout their studies.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-bringing-project-management-into-your-phd/
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Adam Smith was born in the north, a long time ago. He wanted to write books, but ended up working in the NHS, and at the Department of Health.  He is now Programme Director in the Office of the NIHR National Director for Dementia Research (which probably sounds more important than it is) at University College London. He has led a number of initiatives to improve dementia research (including this website, Join Dementia Research & ENRICH), as well as pursuing his own research interests. In his spare time, he grows vegetables, builds Lego & spends most of his time drinking too much coffee and squeezing technology into his house.
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Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
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Dr Clíona Farrell - Should You Stay? Pros and Cons of Postdoc’ing in Your PhD Lab

Dr Clíona Farrell, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Clíona discusses her decision to transition from PhD student to postdoc in the same lab, weighing the benefits and potential drawbacks. She reflects on the comfort of familiar surroundings and established relationships, which helped her dive straight into new projects and finalise her PhD work. Yet, this continuity also brings unique challenges, from overlapping responsibilities to the risk of limited career progression if not carefully navigated. Clíona's insights offer a nuanced look at whether staying put can be the right path for early-career researchers.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-should-you-stay-pros-and-cons-of-postdocing-in-your-phd-lab/
#PhDPosition #PhDLife #PhDFunding #PhDApplications
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Dr Clíona Farrell is a Postdoctoral Researcher in the UK Dementia Research Institute at University College London. Her work focuses on understanding neuroinflammation in Down syndrome, both prior to, and in response to, Alzheimer’s disease pathology. Originally from Dublin, Ireland, Clíona completed her undergraduate degree in Neuroscience in Trinity College, and then worked as a research assistant in the Royal College of Surgeons studying ALS and Parkinson’s disease. She also knows the secret behind scopping the perfect 99 ice-cream cone. @ClionaFarrell_--
Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
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Victoria Gabb - Learning from experience to develop MCI Core Outcomes

Victoria Gabb, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.Victoria’s latest blog provides an update on her team’s progress in developing a core outcome set for mild cognitive impairment (MCI) research. Building on their initial overview, this post discusses the methods used to ensure that the set includes the outcomes that matter most to patients, caregivers, clinicians, and researchers. The process involves an umbrella review of existing MCI studies, stakeholder interviews to capture diverse perspectives, and Delphi surveys to prioritise outcomes. Through these steps, the goal is to reach a consensus on a core outcome set that reflects the priorities of those impacted by MCI, supporting future research that addresses real-world needs.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-learning-from-experience-to-develop-mci-core-outcomes/
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Victoria Gabb is a Senior Research Associate in Sleep & Dementia Neuroscience at University of Bristol. Victoria is working on her PhD through publication and she is currently working on an important project to develop ‘Core Outcomes’ for Mild Cognitive Impairment. Her blogs on dementia researcher will be a way of sharing the progress of her work, to improve transparency, share the process and as a way to involve others - sharing the work, the process, and life in the pursuit of research. 
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Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
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Dr Connor Richardson - Dear Diary, Why I Keep a Research Journal

Dr Connor Richardson narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.In Connor's blog, he highlights the benefits of maintaining a research journal as a practical tool for tracking progress, managing emotions, and fostering personal growth. Far from being just a record of daily tasks, the journal serves as a "done list" that celebrates small achievements, providing motivation during long research processes. Dr Richardson also discusses the value of journaling for reflection, processing frustrations, and honing writing skills, which can make academic writing less daunting. Ultimately, he views journaling as a way to connect more deeply with his work and as a resource to better support his students.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-dear-diary-why-i-keep-a-research-journal/
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Dr Connor Richardson is a Neuro-epidemiology Research Associate (soon to be NIHR Research Fellow) in the Newcastle University Population Health Sciences Institute. Connor is the research statistician for the Cognitive Function and Ageing studies (CFAS) multi-centre population cohort. His research interest lies in using advanced statistical modelling and machine learning to measure dementia risk. Connor blogs about his research, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and sometimes his Pomapoo’s.
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Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
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Dr Yvonne Couch - Imposter Syndrome as a PI

Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In her latest blog, Yvonne reflects on the pervasive impact of imposter syndrome in academia, particularly as a Principal Investigator (PI). She candidly shares her feelings of inadequacy, attributing her successes to luck and timing rather than skill, while confronting the competitive, often isolating nature of academic life. Yvonne explores the constant self-doubt that accompanies grant applications, lab work, and professional recognition, revealing the emotional toll this takes. Her insights will resonate with many researchers who, despite their achievements, continue to feel like "frauds" in their fields.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-imposter-syndrome-as-a-pi/
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Dr Yvonne Couch is an Alzheimer's Research UK Fellow and Associate Professor at the University of Oxford. Yvonne studies the role of extracellular vesicles and their role in changing the function of the vasculature after stroke, aiming to discover why the prevalence of dementia after stroke is three times higher than the average. It is her passion for problem solving and love of science that drives her, in advancing our knowledge of disease. Yvonne writes about her work, academic life, and careers as she takes a new road into independent research @dr_yvonne_couch
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Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
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Emily Spencer - Unexpected Snags and Small Wins as a PhD Mum

Emily Spencer, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.For the past year Emily has been sharing her journey through pregnancy, maternity leave, and now the return to work! This month Emily shares the challenges and small victories she’s experienced since returning from maternity leave. With the academic year underway, Emily reflects on balancing her research with motherhood—navigating unexpected hurdles like last-minute childcare closures and the lingering self-doubt of revisiting past work. Despite the difficulties, she finds resilience in the support of friends and the flexibility to adjust her plans, learning that progress in academia doesn’t always need to be at full speed. Emily’s candid account highlights the complex yet rewarding journey of combining parenthood with doctoral study.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-unexpected-snags-and-small-wins-as-a-phd-mum/
#DementiaResearch #AcademicMother #Academia #MaternityLeave #Research
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Emily Spencer is a PhD Student at University College London looking at improving how GPs communicate with people with dementia and their family carers about their future care. Emily previous had a 5 year career break to pursue a career as a musician, and has previously undertaken research on improving the care people with dementia receive from their GP practice, as well as end-of-life and palliative care provision in the community. Emily is also a new mum and will be writing about her experiences navigating motherhood and a research career.
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Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
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Rebecca Williams - The Dark World of Computational Modelling

Rebecca Williams, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Rebecca, explores the often-intimidating realm of computational modelling in neuroscience. She compares this complex field to a haunted house, where assumptions lurk in shadows, algorithms whisper in the background, and progress requires courage and persistence. Rebecca shares her journey from initially feeling lost in a world of complex mathematics to gradually mastering techniques that unlock deeper insights into brain function. Her blog encourages others to embrace the unknown, demystify the technical language, and make computational modelling more accessible for future researchers.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-the-dark-world-of-computational-modelling/--
Rebecca Williams is PhD student at the University of Cambridge. Though originally from ‘up North’ in a small town called Leigh, she did her undergraduate and masters at the University of Oxford before defecting to Cambridge for her doctorate researching Frontotemporal dementia and Apathy. She now spends her days collecting data from wonderful volunteers, and coding. Outside work, she plays board games, and is very crafty. @beccasue99
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Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
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Bernie McInally - LGBTQ+ in Care Home Research

Bernie McInally narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In his guest blog, Bernie McInally, explores the often-overlooked needs of LGBTQ+ residents in care homes. Reflecting on his initial scepticism of the potential recruitment of LGBTQ+ community into studies, Bernie examines the unique challenges this group faces, including potential social isolation, distrust of care staff, and an increased risk of dementia due to health disparities. He highlights the importance of inclusivity in care home research to better understand and address the specific needs of LGBTQ+ residents, aiming for a future where this community receives equal recognition and support in healthcare.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-lgbtq-in-care-home-research/
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Bernie McInally is a Clinical Studies Officer at NHS Lothian and the Neuroprogressive and Dementia Network. Bernie's background is in Nursing, working in Mental Health and with Older People. He retired from full time NHS clinical work, and is now back working in Clinical Research supporting delivery of the Enabling Research in Care Homes (ENRICH) Scotland. He is passionate about research delivery, and opening access to people in all communities.
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Enjoy listening and reading our blogs? We're always on the look out for new contributors, drop us a line and share your own research and careers advice dementiaresearcher@ucl.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with the NIHR, Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
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Yasmin Bonsu - The Comparison Trap: Finding Balance in Your Final Year

Yasmin Bonsu, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Yasmin explores the pitfalls of self-comparison that many students face as they approach graduation. She discusses how comparing herself to others on platforms like LinkedIn can sometimes be motivating, pushing her to aim higher academically. However, she also recognises the downside, where constant comparisons can lead to self-doubt, skewed perceptions of success, and even missed opportunities. By setting boundaries, focusing on personal goals, and embracing her own achievements, Yasmin shares her strategies for turning comparison into a tool for growth rather than a source of frustration.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-the-comparison-trap-finding-balance-in-your-final-year/
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Yasmin Bonsu is an an undergraduate student from the University of Manchester currently undertaking a placement year at Wade-Martins Lab at Oxford University. Yasmin is investigating the activity of proteoforms of the granin family in cortical neurons insulted with oligomerised amyloid beta. Her goal is to finish her placement year, earn her bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, and then pursue a PhD in clinical neuroscience. Through Yasmin's blogs we'll gain insights on life as an undergraduate, and hopefully inspire others to pursue a career in dementia research. @yasminnnx2
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Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk
This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
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