Dementia Researcher Blogs

Amelia Robson - Working on the road: Benefits of traveling to meet participants

Amelia Robson, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Amelia shares her unique experiences as a travelling researcher, highlighting the unexpected joys and challenges of working on the road. From breathtaking sunrises and scenic countryside drives to connecting with remarkable dementia patients and their stories, she reveals how travel enhances her work. With tips on staying motivated, managing wellbeing, and finding beauty in everyday moments, this blog offers an inspiring glimpse into the life of a dedicated researcher.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-working-on-the-road-benefits-of-traveling-to-meet-participants/
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Amelia Robson is a Research Assistant at Northumbria University supporting delivery of NHS Clinical Trials, particularly in working with Dementia with Lewy bodies and Alzheimer’s disease patients. This work currently involves visiting patient’s homes and applying polysomnography sleep equipment on their face, scalp and body. Amelia graduated in Psychology in 2021 and is passionate about supporting people living with the dementia, and providing help for care givers. Her top tip.... Trust your Gut to stay on the right path. Follow Amelia Robson on LinkedIn
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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 Sam Moxon - Dementia Winter Care

Dr Sam Moxon, narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog Sam examines the hidden challenges faced by people living with dementia during the cold, isolating months of winter. Drawing from personal experiences and expert insights, the blog explores the increased risks, from slips and falls to disrupted sleep and social isolation. But more importantly, it emphasises the power of compassion, connection, and understanding to ease the burden on those affected. A must-read or listen for anyone seeking to support loved ones navigating the unique difficulties of dementia in wintertime.
 
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-dementia-winter-care/
#winter #dementia
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Dr Sam Moxon is a biomaterials Research Fellow at University of Birmingham. His expertise falls on the interface between biology and engineering. His PhD focussed on regenerative medicine and he now works on trying to develop 3D bioprinting techniques with human stem cells, so that we better understand and treat degenerative diseases. Outside of the lab he hikes through the Lake District and is an expert on all things Disney.
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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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Emily Spencer - Battling Perfectionism and Building Resilience

Emily Spencer, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In her latest blog, Emily reflects on the challenges of juggling academia and parenting, exploring how perfectionism can hinder progress and confidence in both spheres. Sharing personal experiences and candid insights, she discusses how resilience and perspective have become essential tools in navigating the ups and downs of research and parenthood. A thoughtful listen (or read) for anyone striving to balance competing priorities while letting go of the need for perfection.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-battling-perfectionism-and-building-resilience/
#DementiaResearch #AcademicMother #Academia #MaternityLeave #Research #Resilience #Perfectionism
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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.
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Lorna Smith - Co-Analysis in Dementia Research: Insights from D-PACT

Lorna Smith, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Lorna shares her first-hand experience of involving people with dementia and carers in co-analysis through the D-PACT study. This blog explores the challenges and successes of working with a Peer Research Group, from tackling ethical considerations and anonymising data to fostering inclusive decision-making. Lorna provides valuable lessons and practical recommendations for researchers interested in co-analysis, offering unique insights that highlight the importance of collaboration and transparency in dementia research.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-co-analysis-in-dementia-research-insights-from-d-pact/
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Lorna Smith is a PhD Student and Research Assistant at the University of Plymouth. Lorna recently started her PhD, using mixed methods to explore the value of engaging with nature on the quality of life for people living with dementia. Prior to this, she has been working in dementia research in studies that aimed to improve or maintain the quality of life for those affected by the condition. Throughout her research career, she has been interested in adaptive and inclusive methods that help include marginalised voices in research. She also bakes a mean apple pie!
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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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Rebecca Williams - Be the Door, Bringing Academia to Life

Rebecca Williams, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Rebecca reflects on the importance of representation and authenticity in academia, sharing how being open about her journey and background has helped make the field more accessible. She emphasises the value of showing future scientists that challenges and doubts are a normal part of the process and encourages academics to share their experiences to help others see a path into science. Her blog offers a thoughtful perspective on how small actions can make a meaningful difference when it comes to inspiring young-people and the next generation of researchers.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-be-the-door-bringing-academia-to-life/--
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.
--
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Dr Yvonne Couch - Coping with An Absent Supervisor

Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Yvonne reflects on the difficulties of dealing with absent supervisors, outlining the reasons they may be unavailable and the challenges this creates for researchers. She discusses strategies to manage different types of supervisors, including balancing independence with seeking guidance and the importance of self-awareness and self-confidence. By sharing practical advice and insights, she encourages readers to evaluate their needs, advocate for themselves, and take proactive steps to ensure their academic progress isn’t derailed. 
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-coping-with-an-absent-supervisor/
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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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Dr Jodi Watt - Financial Exploitation & Scam Susceptibility in Dementia

Dr Jodi Watt, narrating a new blog they wrote for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog Jodi examines financial exploitation and scam susceptibility in dementia. The blog discusses the risks faced by people living with dementia, how these have evolved in the digital age, and the impact on their well-being. It also offers an overview of warning signs, preventative measures, and resources that may be helpful for researchers, caregivers, and professionals in dementia care.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-financial-exploitation-and-scam-susceptibility-in-dementia/
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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.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
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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.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
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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.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
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