We were delighted to announce the winners of two categories at our annual conference, ‘Rising Star in dementia research’ and ‘Outstanding early-career contribution to dementia research’.
Rising star
The overall winner in the Rising Star category was Gemma Roberts from Newcastle University. Her Alzheimer’s Society funded research aims to improve medical scans used to diagnose dementia with Lewy bodies. [1]
Our panel were really impressed by Gemma’s dedication to her research and track record in a desperately-needed field.
The panel praised Gemma’s commitment to her role as an ambassador for dementia research, which includes Dementia Friends Sessions, presenting to MPs and even science stand-up comedy..! We unanimously agreed that Gemma was an asset to the dementia research community.
Outstanding contribution
The overall winner in the Outstanding contribution category was won jointly by Nathan Davies from the University College London and Lauren Walker from Newcastle University.
Nathan Davies
Nathan’s research has focused on family carers’ experiences of end of life care for people with dementia. [2]
The panel were impressed by the contribution to dementia research that he has made in just a few years. They noted the importance of improving end of life care for people affected by dementia and Nathan’s commitment to patient and public involvement.
Lauren Walker
Lauren is a neuropathologist whose research aims to identify potential drug targets and pathways that are specific for the neurodegenerative diseases that cause dementia.
Our panel agreed that Lauren’s research will lead to genuine change for people affected by dementia. Lauren’s shown leadership and a true commitment to dementia research.
From left to right: Jeremy Hughes, Nathan Davies, Lauren Walker and Gemma Roberts and Fiona Carragher (Chief Policy and Research Officer, Alzheimer’s Society)