Dementia Researcher Blogs

Leanne Greene narrates the blog written by herself and colleague Alex Gude written for the Dementia Researcher website. Current NIHR guidance advocates that research should strive to improve the inclusion of individuals with dementia, including those who lack capacity (i.e. the ability to make one’s own decisions). Despite this guidance, D-PACT is one of few studies actively including adults who lack capacity through an innovative ‘inclusive recruitment pathway’ and the use of consultees. In this blog Leanne and Alex how D-PACT went about developing a new approach to addressing capasity, and lessons learned from using their new pathway and guidance. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-judging-capacity-in-dementia-studies-insights-from-face-to-face-and-remote-recruitment/ -- Leanne Greene is a Programme Manager at University of Exeter. With a background is in neuropsychology, Leanne spent time as an assistant psychologist in the NHS, including working on a specialist dementia ward offering assessment and treatment of organic mental health problems with dementia. Leanee has worked on a number of studies including Dementia- PersonAlised Care Team (D-PACT) project, which aims to develop and evaluate a system for dementia support based in general practice. She is currently, working on developing and evaluating a primary care TaIlored ManagEment of Sleep (TIMES) tool for people living with dementia or mild cognitive impairment. Alex Gude is a Research Assistant at University of Plymouth. Having worked as a social worker with children and families for 10 years, Alex moved into research in 2016 and has worked on a number of projects as part of the Community and Primary Care Research Group at the University of Plymouth. All the projects she has chosen to work on are aimed at improving the mental health and wellbeing of the participants involved. Alex has a partner and two daughters, who are 11 and 14, who all keep her on her toes. _____________________________________________________ Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website. Don’t panic. The title was not a confession. Yvonne isn't quitting. At least not yet. But she has been thinking about the motivation to quit a lot lately and in this blog Yvonne shares what she has discovered. First some credit, much of the info in this has been lifted from the amazing A Slight Change of Plans podcast interview with the incredible poker player and psychologist Annie Duke. Annie and the host, Maya Shankar, discuss the psychology behind quitting and the importance of thinking about quitting well, quitting early and deciding to quit. From a researcher’s point of view this is going to have two important bearings on what we do. First, it’s going to play a role in how we decide the path of our science, both the day-to-day experiments and the big picture stuff. And second, it’s going to play a role in how we decide the path of our careers... listen to learn more. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-quitting/ -- Dr Yvonne Couch is an Alzheimer's Research UK Fellow 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 has joined the team of staff bloggers at Dementia Researcher, and will be writing about her work and life as she takes a new road into independent research. _____________________________________________________ Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Masha Burelo narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website. Masha Burelo, PhD Student from University of Aberdeen is back with her third blog in the 'from the plant to the lab series'. Masha is now focussed on dementia research, but her pervious work on cannabinoids, is shared through this series and today she writes about some of the risks... Nowadays, the main source of cannabinoids worldwide is cannabis plants, but we forget that cannabis is a crop that undergoes regular management to improve its growth, development, and yield. Many users only get to see the pharmaceutical products, extracts, edibles, or final buds, but have you ever thought about the chemicals used for growing cannabis or to control its pests? And, since we know the main consumption of cannabis is through smoking, could it be transferred into the smoke? Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-pesticides-in-cannabis/ -- Masha Burelo is a PhD Student at the University of Aberdeen. Her research explores Electrophysiology and behavioural evaluation in preclinical models of Alzheimer’s disease. Masha started her studies in veterinary medicine in Mexico and first became interested in cannabinoids when her dog developed epilepsy, then with close family members struck by Alzheimer's Disease her interest in neuroscience, plants and the brain developed. _____________________________________________________ Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Dr Sam Moxon, narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher. Sam has previously shared his challenges of living with ulcerative pancolitis, sadly this recently landed him in hospital as an inpatient, and in this blog he shares experiences from his stay - we are sure you join us in wishing him a speedy recovery. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-do-we-need-to-peer-review-the-process-of-peer-review/ -- Dr Sam Moxon is a biomaterials scientist at the University of Manchester. 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. 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 [email protected]

Dr Anna Volkmer, narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher. Anna questions how you sustain the Academic element of being a 'Clinical Academic', and how many hours per week justtifies keepin the title? And is it possible to be a commited academic whilst also being a dedicated clinician? A solid bout of imposter syndrome coming through whilst waiting on Fellowship application decisions... Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-the-making-of-the-clinical-academicthe-facade-is-slipping/ -- Dr Anna Volkmer is a Speech and Language Therapist and researcher in Language and Cognition, Department of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London. Anna is researching Speech and language therapy interventions in language led dementia and was once voted scariest speech and language therapist (even her children agree). If you would like to write for us, or join out team of regular contributors, drop us a line - [email protected]

Last week we attended the Alzheimer's Research UK Conference in Brighton. We took time out from the programme to talk with early career dementia researchers to ask them about their work, the challenges they have faced and how they overcame them, and to share a highlight from the conference. In this short interview we talk with Dr Emmanuelle Vire, Associate Professor in the University College London Institute of Prion Diseases. Emmanuelle explores if epigenetics is a hallmark of protein-based inheritance in neurodegeneration. Our research specifically investigates epigenetic mechanisms in human prion diseases. Emmanuelle and her colleagues employ a large array of technologies (transcriptomics, epigenomics, cell-based assays, animal models, patients samples) to determine if, where, when and how epigenetics contribute to disease susceptibility, onset, and progression. Using next-generation technologies we profile DNA, RNA, and histone modifications and identify disease-specific gene (coding and non-coding) signatures and pathways. Some their current projects also involve machine learning, nanopore sequencing, small molecule inhibitor and genome editing. Find out more about Emmanuelle and her work on our website: https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/profile-dr-emmanuelle-vire-university-college-london/ If you would like to join us and add your profile and short interview to our researchers profile, drop us a line to [email protected]

Last week we attended the Alzheimer's Research UK Conference in Brighton. We took time out from the programme to talk with early career dementia researchers to ask them about their work, the challenges they have faced and how they overcame them, and to share a highlight from the conference. In this short interview we talk with Dr Soraya Meftah, Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the UK Dementia Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh. Soraya works in Neurophysiology of dementia (synaptic, neuronal, network dysfunction). Find out more about Soraya and her work on our website: https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/profile-dr-soraya-meftah-the-university-of-edinburgh/ If you would like to join us and add your profile and short interview to our researchers profile, drop us a line to [email protected]

Last week we attended the Alzheimer's Research UK Conference in Brighton. We took time out from the programme to talk with early career dementia researchers to ask them about their work, the challenges they have faced and how they overcame them, and to share a highlight from the conference. In this short interview we talk with Beth Eyre, PhD Student at University of Sheffield. Beth is researching Neurovascular and cognitive function in preclinical models of Alzheimer’s disease. With 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 we are delighted catch up with her and for her ongoing contributions as a regular blogger with Dementia Researcher, sharing her work and discussing her career. Find out more about Beth and her work on our website: https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/profile-beth-eyre/ If you would like to join us and add your profile and short interview to our researchers profile, drop us a line to [email protected]

Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher. With populations getting older, age-associated disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, are projected to place significant demands on global health systems over the coming years. There is therefore an increasing need to understand how to improve and preserve our brain health, but how can we do this when no consensus definition exists of what brain health actually is and what it looks like? In this blog Kamar discusses the challenge of trying to understand brain health, and why it is important. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-what-is-brain-health-and-is-it-important/ -- Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali is a Research Associate at University of Glasgow, 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. Kamar brings a wealth of experience and writes on a range of topics from her time in the NHS, working for a Research Funder and from her work and life in the lab. -- 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 Research UK and Alzheimer's Society, who we thank for their ongoing support.

Nathan Stephens narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher. In this blog Nathan discusses Patient and Public Involvement, unpacking what that actually means in respect of other similar concepts such as participation and engagement, how PPI can be done throughout the research process, and drawing on my experiences of intentionally and unintentionally doing involvement activities. If you are just starting out with you studies this could be helpful to support PPI elements in your research proposal and ethics, or if your research is underway like Nathan's, it may just be useful to validate your activities and situate them in the research process. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-am-i-doing-ppi-or-was-that-ppi/ -- Nathan Stephens is a PhD Student and unpaid carer, working on his PhD at University of Worcester, studying the Worcestershire Meeting Centres Community Support Programme. Inspired by caring for both grandparents and personal experience of dementia, Nathan has gone from a BSc in Sports & Physical Education, an MSc in Public Health, and now working on his PhD. -- 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 Research UK and Alzheimer's Society, who we thank for their ongoing support.

Last week we attended the Alzheimer's Research UK Conference in Brighton. We took time out from the programme to talk with early career dementia researchers to ask them about their work, the challenges they have faced and how they overcame them, and to share a highlight from the conference. In this short interview we talk with Dr Mizuki Morisaki, Research Fellow at University of St Andrews (starting at University of Bristol soon). Mizuki recently finished her PhD focused on how “stress” affects ageing in the brain particularly in the hippocampus using in vitro/in vivo models. Mizuki worked with neurons on the dish as well as birds flying in the aviary! Now her research is more focusing on the in vitro model using neurons as well as microglia, and soon she will be getting hands on with human brain tissue in Bristol. Find out more about Mizuki and her work on our website: https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/profile-dr-mizuki-morisaki-university-of-st-andrews/ If you would like to join us and add your profile and short interview to our researchers profile, drop us a line to [email protected]

This week we've been attending the Alzheimer's Research UK Conference in Brighton. We took time out from the programme to talk with early career dementia researchers to ask them about their work, the challenges they have faced and how they overcame them, and to share a highlight from the conference. In this short interview we talk with Elizabeth 'Lizzie' English, PhD Student at University of Cambridge. Lizzie is utilising biophysical methods to characterise protein aggregates and their toxicity mechanisms in neurodegenerative disease. In her work she is currently utilising post-mortem brain samples, but is keen to investigate clinical samples, like blood and saliva. Find out more about Lizzie and her work on our website: https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/profile-elizabeth-english-university-of-cambridge/ If you would like to join us and add your profile and short interview to our researchers profile, drop us a line to [email protected]

This week we've been attending the Alzheimer's Research UK Conference in Brighton. We took time out from the programme to talk with early career dementia researchers to ask them about their work, the challenges they have faced and how they overcame them, and to share a highlight from the conference. In this short interview we talk with Dr Ian Harrison, Senior Research Fellow at University College London. Ian's work looks at the function of the glymphatic system in the brain, responsible for the clearance of protein solutes from the brain parenchyma. Ian and his lab are investigating the role of this system in neurodegenerative disease, to see if it is responsible for the accumulation of misfolded protein in disease like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s, and test whether we can alter its function as a therapy in these disorders. Find out more about Ian and his work on our website: https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/profile-dr-ian-harrison-university-college-london/ If you would like to join us and add your profile and short interview to our researchers profile, drop us a line to [email protected]

Dr Clarissa Giebel narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher. Is your inbox getting regular email requests to peer review a paper in your field? Has it increased since the pandemic? It certainly has for Clarissa. Peer reviewing manuscripts is a key part of our work, and when reviews don't happen authors may wait around for longer to get their decision. But what about peer reviewing a paper when it’s already published? Also known as the good old Journal Club... In this blog Clarissa discusses her experiences of starting a journal club, what it involves and provides tips for anyone who may be attending their first, making the case that its great prep for going on to peer review pre-publication. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-running-a-journal-club-and-how-to-be-reviewer-2-in-a-safe-environment/ -- Dr Clarissa Giebel is a 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. -- 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 [email protected]

Felicity Slocombe, narrates her blog co-authored with Chloe Waterman written for the Dementia Researcher website. This blog has been written after myself and my colleague Chloe realised the similarity and overlap of two theories we use respectively in our PhD research. We hope to show how neuro-culture (Chloe) and neoliberalism (Felicity) are negatively impacting people with dementia. If we can understand and accept that we live within these cultures in society, we may better understand the continued stigmatisation of dementia? Listen and we will explain. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-dementia-and-stigma-through-the-lenses-of-neuro-culture-and-neoliberalism/ -- Felicity Slocombe is a first year PhD Student from Loughborough University. Felicity's research focuses on identity and dementia and how identity can be managed interactionally – how we can help support identity of people living with dementia through our conversations. Driven by a family connection to dementia, and writing each month on a range of topics from her work, and that of her wider group ACTInG (Applied Cognition Technology and Interaction Group), and sharing news from her training and events. Chloe Waterman is a PhD Student at University of Birmingham and Research Associate at Kings College London. Her research investigates how people with dementia are affected by mental capacity law in England and Wales. Chloe uses discourse and conversation analysis to conduct this socio-legal research, and work at King's, Chloe is involved with projects investigating how community led support programmes work, and how digital tech innovations can be used to improve social wellbeing for older community dwelling adults. _____________________________________________________ Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Adam Smith narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher. Every now and again a little twitter storm blows-up, it probably isn’t big enough to be given a name yet, however its underlying cause is worth talking about… In this blog Adam walking out into the storm and discusses Dementia Champions, their work, living well with dementia and the overall narrative and how dementia is perceived as a result of their great work - do they present a true picture of life with dementia? Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-dementia-champions-inspiring-or-a-false-narrative/ -- 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 Note: The author of this blog uses the term 'Dementia Champion' to describe a person with lived experience of dementia, who shares their experience - in Scotland a 'Dementia Champion' is a health and social care professional that has completed an intensive eight-month programme, to see, hear and feel the experiences of people living with dementia through working closely with them, their carers and their families. It enables the professionals to take the practical knowledge they have learned and share it to make a real difference in their everyday work, whether that is in hospital wards or in community care settings. In Scotland the current term for people with dementia participating in research and education is active voices.

Masha Burelo narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website. Masha Burelo, PhD Student from University of Aberdeen is back with her second blog in the 'from the plant to the lab series'. Masha is now focussed on dementia research, but her pervious work on cannabinoids, is shared through this series and today she writes about their use in the treatment of anxiety. Cannabis has been used for many years as an alternative therapy for anxiety, but some research has provided evidence of its anxiogenic effect. Anxiogenesis means that it can cause anxiety as well. Therefore, are cannabinoids good for treating anxiety? This blog explores the research. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-cannabinoids-and-anxiety/ -- Masha Burelo is a PhD Student at the University of Aberdeen. Her research explores Electrophysiology and behavioural evaluation in preclinical models of Alzheimer’s disease. Masha started her studies in veterinary medicine in Mexico and first became interested in cannabinoids when her dog developed epilepsy, then with close family members struck by Alzheimer's Disease her interest in neuroscience, plants and the brain developed. _____________________________________________________ Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website. Yvonne brings her usual fun to exploring different types of brain imaging and how they’re applied. Neuroimaging, or brain scanning, includes the use of various techniques to either directly or indirectly image the structure, function, or pharmacology of the brain. Neuroimaging falls into two broad categories: structural imaging and functional imaging. - Electroencephalography (EEG) is used to show brain activity under certain psychological states, such as alertness or drowsiness. - Positron emission tomography (PET) scans show brain processes by using the sugar glucose in the brain to illustrate where neurons are firing. - Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans use echo waves to discriminate among grey matter, white matter, and cerebrospinal fluid. - Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scans are a series of MRIs measuring brain function via a computer’s combination of multiple images taken less than a second apart. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-brain-imaging-inside-the-black-box/ -- Dr Yvonne Couch is an Alzheimer's Research UK Fellow 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 has joined the team of staff bloggers at Dementia Researcher, and will be writing about her work and life as she takes a new road into independent research. _____________________________________________________ Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Dr Clarissa Giebel narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher. Anyone who knows Clarissa know's that she is a big believer in collabroations, the pandemic may have changed how we work but its hasn't dampened her enthusiam. In this blog Clarissa explores how these come about, how they have changed and some of the challenges to working with researcher in other countries when travel is difficult. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-overseas-collaborations/ -- Dr Clarissa Giebel is a 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. -- 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 [email protected]

Hannah Hussain narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher. Happy International Day of Women and Girls in Science! This day annually marks the resolution set by the United Nations in 2015 to celebrate women and girls in science and raises awareness of the gender gap in the field of Science and Technology. The gender gap in science still holds women back. According to UNESCO’s Science Report, only 1/3 of science-based researchers are female. While >70% of health and social care workers are women, they are paid ~11% less than their male counterparts. But the world needs science, and science needs women and girls! And what better way to honour this day than reflecting on some of the ground-breaking contributions made to the field by female scientists… Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-women-and-girls-in-science-agents-of-change/ -- Hannah Hussain is a PhD Student in Health Economics at The University of Sheffield. As a proud third generation migrant and British-Asian, her career path has been linear and ever evolving, originally qualifying as a Pharmacist in Nottingham, then Health Economics in Birmingham. Her studies have opened a world into Psychology, Mental Health and other areas of health, and with that and personal influences she found her passion for dementia. -- 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 Research UK and Alzheimer's Society, who we thank for their ongoing support. Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Beth Eyre, narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher. The last year of your PhD can be difficult, lots of writing, experiments and research to finish, the viva... and then the big challenge... what comes next? A PhD is a door to your future, but what future will you choose? Stay in Research? Academia? A clinical career? Industry? In this blog Beth Eyre discusses this tricky topic and shares thoughts on her future, and her plans. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-the-perils-of-what-next/ 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 to [email protected] Don't forget to also listen to our fortnightly - published fortnightly, just look for Dementia Researcher in your podcast app. -- Author Beth Eyre is a PhD Student 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 we are delighted to have her contributing as a regular blogger with Dementia Researcher, sharing her work and discussing her career. -- This podcast is brought to you from University College London in association with the National Institute for Health Research, Alzheimer's Research UK and Alzheimer's Society, who we thank for their ongoing support.

Jodi Parslow, narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher. Fruit flies are often thought of as an annoying pest but in this blog Jodi explains why they are one of science’s most useful model organisms and give you an insight into the kind of research these little beasties contribute to. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-research-flies-when-youre-having-fun/ -- Jodi Parslow is a MRC-DTP Doctoral Researcher at King's College London researching Neuron-glia signalling and neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative disease. Jodi started her career as a Nursing Assistant, that led her to Neuroscience at University of Sussex, then on to a Masters and into industry working for a wearables technology company. Finally Jodi brought her skills and passion together to work in dementia research, first as a Research Technician and now as a PhD Student. Jodi loves talking about her work and science, and also has her own podcast 'The Academinist'. If you would like to write for us, or join out team of regular contributors, drop us a line - [email protected]

Dr Anna Volkmer, narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher. In September Dr Anna Volkmer described the trials and tribulations of going for gold, in other words open access publication. Well, she promised to update us, and in this blog she does (spoiler alert - the paper is now in the public domain). Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-the-interview/ -- Dr Anna Volkmer is a Speech and Language Therapist and researcher in Language and Cognition, Department of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London. Anna is researching Speech and language therapy interventions in language led dementia and was once voted scariest speech and language therapist (even her children agree). If you would like to write for us, or join out team of regular contributors, drop us a line - [email protected]

Dr Sam Moxon, narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher. Sam has previously shared his challenges of living with ulcerative pancolitis, sadly this recently landed him in hospital as an inpatient, and in this blog he shares experiences from his stay - we are sure you join us in wishing him a speedy recovery. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-hospital-in-a-time-of-covid-from-my-own-experience/ -- Dr Sam Moxon is a biomaterials scientist at the University of Manchester. 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. 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 [email protected]

Hannah Hussain narrates her blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. You had big plans for 2022! Resolutions were written, productivity was projected, research was to be researched. But now January has flown right by, dry-Jan has gone down the drain and you haven’t quite managed to stick to all of those resolutions… Well, don’t despair! In this blog Hannah Hussain shares her tips for turning it at all around. The year is still very young and the goals that you have set are meant for you to achieve. Here are top 5 tips for boosting your productivity, which will in turn hopefully help you to get back on track and smash out those research goals. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-beating-the-winter-blues/ -- Hannah Hussain is a PhD Student in Health Economics at The University of Sheffield. As a proud third generation migrant and British-Asian, her career path has been linear and ever evolving, originally qualifying as a Pharmacist in Nottingham, then Health Economics in Birmingham. Her studies have opened a world into Psychology, Mental Health and other areas of health, and with that and personal influences she found her passion for dementia. -- 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 Research UK and Alzheimer's Society, who we thank for their ongoing support. Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Dr James Quinn, narrates her blog written for the ISTAART PIA to Elevate Early Career Researchers, shared by Dementia Researcher. In the first of our regular blogs from the ISTAART PIA to Elevate Early Career Researchers, Dr James Quinn reflects on his move from the UK to the USA and his time as a postdoc. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/istaart-blog-the-trials-and-tribulations-of-doing-an-academic-postdoc-abroad 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 to [email protected] Don't forget to also listen to our fortnightly - published fortnightly, just look for Dementia Researcher in your podcast app. -- Author Dr James Quinn is a Research Fellow at Massachusetts General Hospital Department of Neurology and Programme Chair of the ISTAART PIA to Elevate Early Career Researchers. Working on trying to improve the understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms that lead to the different forms of dementia, researching the role of neuropeptides which are extremely important in neuronal signalling, contributing to synapse maintenance, energy balance and neurogenesis. For ISTAART he is responsible for organising events and support activities for early career researchers.

Nathan Stephens narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher. In this blog Nathan explores a topic that he has been thinking a lot about, the narrative and public perception of dementia. Dementia awareness has excelled through the direction of successive national strategies which has undoubtable influenced public opinion, and political appetite for positive social change. However, Nathan argues there is much to be done to improve the dementia narrative which can sometimes be inadvertently misleading from those ‘inside’ the dementia arena. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-dont-say-the-d-word -- Nathan Stephens is a PhD Student and unpaid carer, working on his PhD at University of Worcester, studying the Worcestershire Meeting Centres Community Support Programme. Inspired by caring for both grandparents and personal experience of dementia, Nathan has gone from a BSc in Sports & Physical Education, an MSc in Public Health, and now working on his PhD. -- 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 Research UK and Alzheimer's Society, who we thank for their ongoing support.

Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website. The blood-brain barrier (BBB) is the specialised system of brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMVEC) that shields the brain from toxic substances in the blood, supplies brain tissues with nutrients, and filters harmful compounds from the brain back to the bloodstream - mostly you want that barrier closed, but what about when you want therapies to pass through, because they NEED to be in the brain? Yvonne explains how the blood brain barrier works, starting with Paul Ehrlich in the late 1800s and some notes on why we should stop talking about Paul Ehrlich and the blood brain barrier - and why all of this is important in dementia and stroke. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-the-blood-brain-barrier -- Dr Yvonne Couch is an Alzheimer's Research UK Fellow 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 has joined the team of staff bloggers at Dementia Researcher, and will be writing about her work and life as she takes a new road into independent research. -- 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 Research UK and Alzheimer's Society, who we thank for their ongoing support.

Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher. In this blog Kamar describes what neuropathology can tell us about the brain diseases which lead to dementia, and what this means for dementia diagnosis in life. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-what-neuropathology-can-tell-us-about-the-brain-diseases-which-lead-to-dementia/ 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 [email protected] -- Author Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali is a Research Associate at University of Glasgow, 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. Kamar brings a wealth of experience and writes on a range of topics from her time in the NHS, working for a Research Funder and from her work and life in the lab. -- This podcast is brought to you from University College London in association with Alzheimer's Research UK and Alzheimer's Society, who we thank for their ongoing support.

Beth Eyre, narrates her blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. PhDs are hard. And the last couple of months of Beths PhD have been exceptionally challenging. A few months ago, she was in the final stages of checking her manuscript that she had been working on for almost a year. Checking through the code to ensure that everything was working correctly and her stomach sank. When she realised she'd forgotten to run a piece of important code – which now meant that she would need to re run all her analysis, create new figures and redo the statistics – a mammoth job on top of all her scheduled experiments. So, in today’s blog Beth gives you an insight into the highs and lows of scientific research – from her perspective as a third year PhD student. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-the-highs-and-lows-of-scientific-research/ 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 to [email protected] Don't forget to also listen to our fortnightly - published fortnightly, just look for Dementia Researcher in your podcast app. -- Author Beth Eyre is a PhD Student 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 we are delighted to have her contributing as a regular blogger with Dementia Researcher, sharing her work and discussing her career. -- This podcast is brought to you from University College London in association with Alzheimer's Research UK and Alzheimer's Society, who we thank for their ongoing support.

Masha Burelo narrates her blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. Masha Burelo, PhD Student from University of Aberdeen first blog on the topic of cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are gaining fame for recreative and medicinal purposes. Although their popularity varies from a user, non-user, scientific, psychological, comprehensive, or holistic perspectives, everybody has an opinion about them. Here I will try to give you scientific-based information to build up your own opinion about these compounds and the upcoming cannabis culture. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-from-the-plant-to-the-lab/ 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 [email protected] -- Masha Burelo is a PhD Student at the University of Aberdeen. Her research explores Electrophysiology and behavioural evaluation in preclinical models of Alzheimer’s disease. Masha started her studies in veterinary medicine in Mexico and first became interested in cannabinoids when her dog developed epilepsy, then with close family members struck by Alzheimer's Disease her interest in neuroscience, plants and the brain developed.

Dr Clarissa Giebel narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher. Essential reading for any early career researcher writing their first grant application - because getting your costings right, and managing the budget are a key skill, and can mean the difference between grant acceptance or rejection. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-from-costings-to-successfully-managing-a-research-budget/ -- Dr Clarissa Giebel is a 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. -- 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 [email protected]

Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website. Yvonne comes at dementia from a different perspective, not the brain... but the rest of your body, and inflammation, and how to think differently. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-inflammation-and-the-brain-thinking-outside-the-box/ -- Dr Yvonne Couch is an Alzheimer's Research UK Fellow 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 has joined the team of staff bloggers at Dementia Researcher, and will be writing about her work and life as she takes a new road into independent research. _____________________________________________________ Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Nathan Stephens narrates his blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. In this blog Nathan shares a day in his life, have a read and have a walk in his shoes as he reflects on his day, life and studies in a very unique way Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-the-imperfection-in-reflection/ Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk -- Nathan Stephens is a PhD Student and unpaid carer, working on his PhD at University of Worcester, studying the Worcestershire Meeting Centres Community Support Programme. Inspired by caring for both grandparents and personal experience of dementia, Nathan has gone from a BSc in Sports & Physical Education, an MSc in Public Health, and now working on his PhD.

Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. In this blog Kam discusses what to expect from your viva and sharing experience of how she survived hers - with top tips for PhD Students. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-surviving-a-bad-viva/ 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 [email protected]

Felicity Slocombe, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website. Subject Pronouns in English - I, We, You, He, She, They, and It - small words that take on a whole new meaning when listening back to conversations between loved ones living with dementia. Felicity explores the topic. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-couplehood-co-remembering-the-bond-of-a-lifetime-together/ If you would like to write for us, or join out team of regular contributors, drop us a line - [email protected]

Hannah Hussain narrates her blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. There’s no question that the academic in your life deserves the best – no matter the occasion! Be that your supervisor, student, mentor, partner or even just a colleague secret Santa. It’s been a tough year – and we’re all trying to end it on a high. I know how hard shopping can be during the festive season, so many choices yet no clue what to buy?! With 7 shopping days to go, in this blog Hannah is going to cover her top 10 festive gift recommendations (with varied price points) for the academic or scientist in your life! Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-player-001 Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Dr Clarissa Giebel narrates her blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. In health and social care, we often think about research methodology in one of two ways – qualitative or quantitative. But what if we use both? Dr Clarissa Giebel discusses mixed methods research and how she uses this method in her own work. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-what-is-mixed-methods-research-and-how-do-you-go-about-it/ 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 [email protected]

Dr Anna Volkmer, narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher. In September Dr Anna Volkmer described the trials and tribulations of going for gold, in other words open access publication. Well, she promised to update us, and in this blog she does (spoiler alert - the paper is now in the public domain). Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/green-and-gold-the-highs-and-the-lows-of-open-access-publications/ -- Dr Anna Volkmer is a Speech and Language Therapist and researcher in Language and Cognition, Department of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London. Anna is researching Speech and language therapy interventions in language led dementia and was once voted scariest speech and language therapist (even her children agree). If you would like to write for us, or join out team of regular contributors, drop us a line - [email protected]

Nathan Stephens narrates his blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. In last month’s blog Nathan spoke about a shift in the way we think about our economies, geared towards ‘social value’. This holistic concept of value reflects the complexity of the modern world and the challenges that face society today and tomorrow. Nathan is using a social value framework – Social Return on Investment – to capture and measure the impact of the Worcestershire Meeting Centres project, which to recap, is the scaling up of a community-based intervention (Meeting Centres) across a county in England. SROI is a mixed methods framework for measuring and accounting the social value developed by Social Value International. In this blog Nathan talks us through the stages and principles, Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-an-introduction-to-social-return-on-investment Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. The traditional academic career track is no-longer the norm, so now you need to find your own path, which can include leaving and returning - Kamar discusses in this blog Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-when-to-leave-academia-and-how-to-return-if-you-change-your-mind 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 [email protected]

Dr Sam Moxon, narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher. As part of our week of focussing on post-doc challenges, Dr Sam Moxon considers how to breakfree of doing other peoples research, and progress to being a PI and following your own research path (something he hopes to do himself very soon). Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-how-to-develop-research-independence/ -- Dr Sam Moxon is a biomaterials scientist at the University of Manchester. 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. 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 [email protected]

Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website. A thoughful blog from Dr Yvonne Couch, discussing some of the challenges faced by postdocs, exploring some of the problems faced in science careers and nicely prepairing you for next weeks perpetual postdoc podcasts and support articles. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-academic-life-and-the-problems-of-perpetual-post-docing/ _____________________________________________________ Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk Don't forget to hit like and subscribe.

Beth Eyre, narrates her blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. With many doctoral training programme deadlines approaching, this blog from Beth Eyre might just help you ace the interview. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-three-important-things-to-remember-when-preparing-for-a-phd-interview 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 to [email protected] Don't forget to also listen to our fortnightly - published fortnightly, just look for Dementia Researcher in your podcast app.

Hannah Hussain narrates her blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. Did you watch Squid Game? Warning this blog contains spoilers! Hannah Hussain explores the image of dementia portrayed on television. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-player-001 Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Felicity Slocombe, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website. Felicity shares the progress she is making in her research, and the lessons she has learned so far from analysing conversations, and pouring data aka video recordings. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-conversation-analysis-beginnings-tips-and-lessons-learned If you would like to write for us, or join out team of regular contributors, drop us a line - [email protected]

Morgan Daniel, narrates her blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. Morgan discusses her MSc dissertation, how to choose a project, supervision and tips getting through the writing. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-job-hunting We hope you have enjoyed out monthly updates from Morgan, if you have been inspired to follow her path into a Dementia MSc or are just starting out, drop us a line. We are always on the look out for new bloggers and vloggers http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

Dr Clarissa Giebel narrates her blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. Clarissa reflects and updates on the recent Liverpool Dementia & Ageing Research Conference, available to watch back now on the NIHR ARC MWC YouTube Channel. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-another-year-another-liverpool-dementia-conference/ 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 [email protected]

Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website. Yvonne provides a series of writing exercises, hints and tips for everyone starting out on their first paper, grant or project report. Taking her own advice and assuming you're new to the process, essential tips for new academics and students. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-err-on-the-side-of-patronising-writing-tips -- Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk -- Don't forget to hit like and subscribe.

Beth Eyre, narrates her blog written for NIHR Dementia Researcher. In this month’s blog Beth provides insights into the brains waste system – and how it may be important in Alzheimer’s disease. So, saddle up for some fascinating science! Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/guest-blog-how-does-the-brain-clean-itself-and-is-this-linked-to-alzheimers/ 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 to [email protected] Don't forget to also listen to our fortnightly - published fortnightly, just look for Dementia Researcher in your podcast app.