Sarah Gregory
Name:
Sarah Gregory
Job Title:
Postdoctoral Research Fellow
Place of work / study:
The University of Edinburgh
Area of Research:
I am interested in understanding more about early and mid-life modifiable risk factors [1] for future brain health. At the moment I am particularly interested in exploring the role of diet, stress and steroid hormones.
How is your research funded:
Medical Research Council (UK), UKRI, philanthropic donations
Tell us a little about yourself:
I’ve worked in the field of dementia research since 2010, starting off working in clinical trials and more recently working on cohort studies. I completed both my MSc and PhD part-time whilst working as a study coordinator and am currently working as a post-doctoral research fellow. I really love the time I get to spend at work with our patient, public and participant research partners who have such an impact on our work. I’m also interested in research ethics and sit on two ethics committees- we’re not that scary!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
My claim to fame is that I was a waitress in the final episode of Great British Menu in 2010 and got to serve the now King and Queen- I’m sure you can find evidence in the BBC iPlayer Archives!
Why did you choose to work in dementia:
I had the opportunity to complete a year long placement as part of my undergraduate psychology degree and was lucky enough to spend this in Australia in an older adults neuropsychological department. This was my first exposure to working in the field of dementia and I knew it was an area I wanted to continue my career in. I really enjoy working with people with dementia and their families, as well as working to understand more about the causes and possible prevention strategies.
What single piece of advice would you give to an early career researcher?
The best piece of advice I ever got was to do what interests you and you’ll always enjoy your job!
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
I just finished Paradise by Hanya Yanagahari and would recommend it, although A Little Life by the same author remains my favourite (albeit most traumatic!) book.