Dementia Researcher Blogs

Yasmin Bonsu - Essential Resources for Internship Success

Yasmin Bonsu, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In her latest guest blog on Dementia Researcher, Yasmin unveils her essential toolkit for securing internships and navigating the overwhelming application season. With a personal and pragmatic approach, Yasmin highlights invaluable resources such as the 10,000 Black Interns Foundation, which offers unique opportunities across various sectors, and the comprehensive support from university career services. She also shares insights into utilising platforms like the British Neuroscience Association and Bright Network to discover tailored PhD and job opportunities. This guide is a must-read for fellow students aiming to carve out successful paths in their fields.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-essential-resources-for-internship-success/
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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.
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Opening Notes: Dr Becky Carlyle's Journey

Dr Becky Carlyle, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In her first blog for Dementia Researcher, new regular contributor Becky provides, "Opening Notes," sharing her compelling journey from Oxford to building her own research lab. As a new addition joiner to our blogging team, Becky will share insights on leadership, the challenges and decisions involved in establishing a lab, and the lessons learned along the way. Her narrative blends personal anecdotes with professional advice, making it a must-read for aspiring researchers and seasoned academics alike. Join her as she outlines the path to academic success and research innovation.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-opening-notes-dr-becky-carlyles-journey/--
 
Dr Becky Carlyle is an Alzheimer's Research UK Senior Research Fellow at University of Oxford, and has previously worked in the USA. Becky writes about her experiences of starting up a research lab and progressing into a more senior research role. Becky's research uses mass-spectrometry to quantify thousands of proteins in the brains and biofluids of people with dementia. Her lab is working on various projects, including work to compare brain tissue from people with dementia from Alzheimer’s Disease, to tissue from people who have similar levels of Alzheimer’s Disease pathology but no memory problems. Becky is also a mum, she runs, drinks herbal tea's and reads lots of books. Find Becky 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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Rebecca Williams - A PhD’s Christmas Carol

Rebecca Williams, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
Today Rebecca narrates the transformative journey of a PhD student during the festive season. Drawing parallels to Charles Dickens's classic, the blog captures the student's initial despair and subsequent awakening to the profound value and impact of her research. This heartwarming tale is a must-read for anyone enduring the rigorous demands of academic pursuits, offering a message of hope and reassurance that their hard work is indeed meaningful.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-a-phds-christmas-carol/--
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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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.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
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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.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
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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.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
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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.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
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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.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
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