Dementia Researcher Blogs

Dr Clarissa Giebel - Raising awareness of dementia with cartoons

Dr Clarissa Giebel narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog Clarissa remembers Tony Husband, Private Eye cartoonist and dementia awareness advocate. Tony used his personal experience and artistic prowess to create touching cartoons about his father's dementia, educating and resonating with many. His work lives on in his books and the hearts of the dementia community. Clarissa reflects on Tony's impact and his creative approach to raising awareness. Join us in honouring his contribution to dementia care and understanding.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-raising-awareness-of-dementia-with-cartoons/
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Dr Clarissa Giebel is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Liverpool and NIHR ARC North West Coast. Clarissa has been working in dementia care research for over 10 years focusing her research on helping people with dementia to live at home independently and well for longer, addressing inequalities that people with dementia and carers can face. Outside of her day work, Clarissa has also organised a local dementia network - the Liverpool Dementia & Ageing Research Forum, and has recently started her own podcast called the Ageing Scientist.
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If you would like to write your own blog drop us a line, we're always on the look out for new contributors to write about their research, careers + more dementiaresearcher@ucl.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.

Adam Smith - Critical Roles That Fuel Clinical Trials

Adam Smith narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog Adam underscores the vital but often overlooked roles that Research Nurses, Clinical Trial Practitioners, and other Leaders and coordinators play in clinical trials. Drawing from his years at UCL and the NIHR, Adam points out that the shortage of these key professionals is could hinder the progress in dementia teatments. As new trials for Alzheimer's are on the horizon, Adam argues that filling these roles is essential for translating lab discoveries into patient benefits.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-critical-roles-that-fuel-clinical-trials/
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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.

Dr Connor Richardson - How is working from home affecting research culture in universities?

Dr Connor Richardson narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Discover the complexities and implications of the work-from-home trend in the academic research landscape through Connor's insightful blog. As someone deeply embedded in data science (which lends itself to home working), Connor weighs the pros and cons of remote work, particularly its impact on university research culture. The blog explores the beneficial aspects, including flexibility, cost-saving, and inclusivity. Yet, it also unflinchingly tackles the drawbacks such as isolation, loss of networking opportunities, and the nuanced inequalities that arise, especially for early career researchers. Engaging and comprehensive, this blog is a must-read for anyone invested in the future of academic research. Whether you're considering remote work or already a remote work veteran, you'll find this examination both thorough and thought-provoking.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-how-is-working-from-home-affecting-research-culture-in-universities/
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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.

Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali - Recent advances in Alzheimer’s treatments: Game-changers or false hope?

Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In Kamar's latest blog post, the recent advances in Alzheimer's treatments are put under the microscope. While some herald these new drugs as breakthroughs, the blog questions the extent of their effectiveness and safety. Drawing on data and firsthand experience, it explores whether these treatments truly offer hope or merely fuel false expectations. A must-read for those seeking a balanced view on Alzheimer's research.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-alzheimers-treatments-game-changers-or-false-hope/
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Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali is a Lecturer in Biomedical Science at Teesside University & Affiliate Researcher at Glasgow University. In addition to teaching, Kamar is exploring how neuroinflammation following traumatic brain injury contributes to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases that lead to dementia. Having first pursued a career as an NHS Psychologist, Kamar went back to University in Durham to look at rodent behavioural tasks to completed her PhD, and then worked as a regional Programme Manager for NC3Rs.
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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.

Dr Gaia Brezzo - Sorting FACS from fiction

Dr Gaia Brezzo narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Gaia's blog, serves as a comprehensive guide to Fluorescence Activated Cell Sorting (FACS), a cornerstone technique in immunology. With an inviting blend of technical detail and accessible language, the blog demystifies the differences between FACS and flow cytometry, elaborating on their shared principle of using fluorescence to isolate and analyse individual cells. The author offers an insider's view of how FACS is integral to her own research, particularly in studying cell types like microglia and macrophages in the context of strokes. While acknowledging the challenges and limitations inherent to the technique—such as the need for high numbers of viable cells and the loss of spatial information—the blog ultimately underscores the irreplaceable value of FACS in advancing our understanding of disease mechanisms and cellular functions.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-sorting-facs-from-fiction/
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Dr Gaia Brezzo is a Research Fellow based within the UK Dementia Research Institute at The University of Edinburgh. Gaia's research focuses on understanding how immune alterations triggered by stroke shape chronic maladaptive neuroimmune responses that lead to post-stroke cognitive decline and vascular dementia. Raised in Italy, Gaia came to the UK to complete her undergraduate degree, and thankfully, stuck around. Gaia writes about her work and career challenges, when not biking her way up and down hills in Edinburgh. Follow Gaia on Twitter: @Gaia_Brezzo
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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.

Dr Yvonne Couch - Presenting your Research to a Lay Audience

Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In Yvonne's latest piece, she offers insights into the art of presenting scientific findings to a non-scientific audience. Highlighting the importance of simplifying complex terms, prioritising engaging visuals, and continuously relating findings back to real-life relevance, Yvonne reminds us of the fundamental basics when communicating intricate research. Reflecting on her own experiences of receiving complex talks and the importance of making research relatable, she emphasises that for many, understanding this work isn't just about curiosity; it's deeply personal. By marrying simplicity with genuine enthusiasm, scientists can effectively convey their vital research in a manner that resonates with everyone
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-presenting-your-research-to-a-lay-audience/
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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.

Dr Jodi Watt - Advocating for Yourself in Academia

Dr Jodi Watt, narrating a new blog they wrote for the Dementia Researcher website.
Navigating the complexities of academia? Jodi's blog post offers practical advice on self-advocacy, inspired by their own journey. From learning how to say "no" to understanding work-life balance, Jodi sheds light on key strategies to help you manage your academic career effectively. A must-read for anyone in the academic field.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-advocating-for-yourself-in-academia/
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Dr Jodi Watt is a Postdoctoral Researcher at University of Glasgow. Jodi's academic interests are in both healthy ageing and neurodegenerative diseases of older age, and they are currently working on drug repurposing for dementia. Previously they worked on understanding structural, metabolic and physiological brain changes with age, as measured using magnetic resonance imaging. As a queer and neurodiverse person, Jodi is also incredibly interested in improving diversity and inclusion practices both within and outside of the academic context.
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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.

Dr Beth Eyre - How to find a PhD… an insider’s guide!

Beth Eyre narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Navigating the labyrinthine world of doctoral research? Beth is our go-to source for demystifying the process. Whether you're set on a specific research question or just know the academic field you want to explore, Beth's comprehensive guide lays out practical steps to find the PhD programme that's right for you. From the utility of websites like findaphd.com, which lists thousands of PhD opportunities worldwide, to the advantages of using social media platforms like X to connect with key researchers (and the Dementia Researcher website), she offers a variety of methods to help you find your perfect match.
The blog even includes tips on how to directly approach research group leaders and delves into the specifics of Doctoral Training Programmes (DTPs). It's a must-read for anyone serious about pursuing a PhD.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-how-to-find-a-phd-an-insiders-guide/
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Dr (pending minor amendments) Beth Eyre is a Postdoctoral Researcher at The University of Sheffield, researching Neurovascular and cognitive function in preclinical models of Alzheimer’s disease. Beth has a background in psychology, where she gained her degree from the University of Leeds. Inside and outside the lab, Beth loves sharing her science and in her blogs, she discusses her work, career and shares lessons she learns as she navigates life as an early career researcher.
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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. Enjoy listening? We're always on the look out for new contributors, if you would like to write and narrate your own blog - drop us a line dementiaresearcher@ucl.ac.uk. 
Don't forget to also listen to our fortnightly podcast, just look for Dementia Researcher in your podcast app.

Ajantha Abey - Using Time Tracking for Time Management

Ajantha Abey narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Discover the art of effective time management with insights from Ajantha Abey, a PhD student at Oxford University. In this compelling blog, Ajantha reveals how the simple yet transformative technique of Time Tracking can revolutionise both your academic and personal life. Whether you're wrestling with a demanding research schedule or juggling multiple roles, this blog offers practical advice to help you measure your time and achieve a balanced lifestyle. Don't leave your productivity to guesswork—learn to measure it and master it.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-using-time-tracking-for-time-management/
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Ajantha Abey is a PhD student in the Kavli Institute at University of Oxford. He is interested in the cellular mechanisms of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other diseases of the ageing brain. Previously, having previoulsy explored neuropathology in dogs with dementia and potential stem cell replacement therapies. He now uses induced pluripotent stem cell derived neurons to try and model selective neuronal vulnerability: the phenomenon where some cells die but others remain resilient to neurodegenerative diseases.
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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 Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.