Dementia Researcher Blogs

Adam Smith - Building Your Personal Brand

Adam Smith narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this guest blog, Adam challenges the scepticism around “personal branding” by reframing it as a tool for clarity rather than self-promotion. Drawing from personal anecdotes and practical advice, he explains how early career researchers can shape how they’re perceived by being deliberate in how they show up, online and in person. With thoughtful encouragement, he demystifies what a brand is and isn’t—and why even quiet, kind, reliable people can benefit from having one.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-building-a-personal-brand/
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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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Rebecca Williams - AI and BlueSky: Embracing the Everyday Tech of Academia

Rebecca Williams, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Rebecca offers a pragmatic guide to everyday tech that can support academic work. From AI tools like ChatGPT and Elicit, to reference managers and visual design hacks in PowerPoint, she explores how to navigate, adopt, and balance new digital tools. Rebecca also champions the use of social media platforms like BlueSky to connect and amplify research, encouraging researchers to make technology work for them—efficiently, thoughtfully, and creatively.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-ai-and-bluesky-embracing-the-everyday-tech-of-academia/--
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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Emily Spencer - Retreat, Regroup, Rewrite

Emily Spencer, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In her new blog, Emily shares how a writing retreat provided a vital lifeline during a difficult time balancing research and parenting. Amid exhaustion, doubts, and a heavy workload, Emily found renewed confidence, rest, and extraordinary productivity during three days of silent writing. Her honest reflection highlights the value of protected time and reminds us that even small breaks can restore belief in ourselves and our work.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-retreat-regroup-rewrite/
#DementiaResearch #AcademicMother #Academia #MaternityLeave #Research #Productivity #PhDWriting #PhDLife
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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:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
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https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher

Adam Smith - How to Network and Advice for Making the First Move

Adam Smith narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Adam shares practical and honest advice on networking in research. Drawing on personal experiences and real-life examples, he breaks down the awkwardness of making the first move, highlights the power of casual conversations, and encourages early-career researchers to embrace small, meaningful interactions. His message is simple but powerful: connection matters, even if it starts with just a like, a question, or a compliment.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-how-to-network-and-advice-for-making-the-first-move/
--
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.
--
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/
https://twitter.com/demrescommunity
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher
https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social

Jacqui Kerr - A Day in the Life of a Clinical Trial Coordinator

Jacqui Kerr narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In her first guest blog, Jacqui Kerr from the Neuroprogressive & Dementia Network offers a personal and insightful glimpse into her role as a clinical trial coordinator. With nearly two decades in Alzheimer’s research, Jacqui reflects on the complexity and rewards of her work, highlighting the critical importance of communication, teamwork, and participant engagement. From coordinating diverse professionals to supporting study volunteers, she reveals the dynamic nature of a role often underestimated but essential to successful research.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-a-day-in-the-life-of-a-clinical-trial-coordinator/
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Jacqueline Kerr is the Network Manager for the Neuroprogressive and Dementia Network in Scotland. With a background in research management and public engagement, she is dedicated to supporting clinical trials and improving access to research across the country. Jacqueline works closely with clinicians, researchers, and the public to raise awareness of dementia studies and encourage participation.
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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/
https://x.com/demrescommunity
https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher

Jennifer Bray & Teresa Atkinson - Reflecting on challenging situations when conducting research

Jennifer Bray narrates her & Dr Teresa Atkinson's blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Jennifer & Teresa reflect on the unexpected hurdles they faced while evaluating a new staff role in a housing scheme. From construction delays and staff resignations to illness and data collection issues, their blog highlights the reality of conducting research in real-world settings. They share how flexibility, preparation, good communication, and strong relationships helped them overcome setbacks and still deliver a successful project—packed with valuable insights for fellow researchers.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-reflecting-on-challenging-situations-when-conducting-research/
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Jennifer Bray is a Research Assistant at the University of Worcester’s Association for Dementia Studies. Her work focuses on improving quality of life for people affected by dementia, with recent projects on environmental design and carer support.
Dr Teresa Atkinson is a Senior Research Fellow at the University of Worcester’s Association for Dementia Studies. Her work focuses on improving quality of life for people living with dementia and those who support them, drawing on over 20 years of qualitative research experience.
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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/
https://x.com/demrescommunity
https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher

Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali - The use of Generative AI in academia & higher education: friend or foe?

Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Kamar examines the rapid rise of generative AI and its complex impact on academia and higher education. Reflecting on her own teaching experience and changes within the sector, she explores how universities and researchers are grappling with questions of academic integrity, innovation, and ethical use. From concerns about student deskilling and data protection to potential benefits in improving access, efficiency, and creativity, this article provides a nuanced perspective on whether generative AI is friend or foe in the academic world.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-the-use-of-generative-ai-in-academia-higher-education-friend-or-foe/
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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.
--
Follow us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
https://x.com/demrescommunity
https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher

Dr Jodi Watt - How to Write a Powerful Conference Abstract

Dr Jodi Watt, narrating a new blog they wrote for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Jodi offers essential advice for crafting a conference abstract that gets noticed. From understanding your audience and refining your pitch to managing submission logistics, Jodi shares candid insights, common mistakes to avoid, and practical tips for making every word count. Whether you're a first-timer or regular conference presenter, this guide will help you sharpen your skills and boost your chances of conference success.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-how-to-write-a-powerful-conference-abstract/
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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:
https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
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https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher
https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social

Dr Yvonne Couch - Writing Your First Fellowship

Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this practical blog, Yvonne shares personal insights and lessons learned from her own journey writing fellowship applications. From figuring out the right time to apply, to choosing a niche research idea and navigating funding options, Yvonne offers encouragement, honesty, and a few cautionary tales — including a key tip on valuing your own salary. Whether you're just considering a fellowship or already knee-deep in planning one, this is essential reading for early career researchers.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-writing-your-first-fellowship/
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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.
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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/
https://twitter.com/demrescommunity
https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher
https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social