Dr Dayne Beccano-Kelly
Name:
Dr Dayne Beccano-Kelly
Job title:
UKRI Future Leader Fellow and UK Dementia Research Institute [1] Group Leader
Place of work / study:
Cardiff University
Area of Research:
Neurodegeneration currently focussing on Parkinson’s disease and looking at both the temporality of the disorder as well as the role synaptic dysfunction plays.
How is your work funded?
Through my UKRI fellowship.
Tell us a little about yourself:
I try to be an advocate for underrepresented groups in STEM and am keen to see equity in the system. I am an avid Arsenal fan and love the Welsh National team. I am always keen to try out fresh experiences and enjoy travelling to new places.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
I played a saxophone solo in People’s Square, Shanghai, China to hundreds of people whilst touring with a Big Band (Jazz /Swing).
Why did you choose to work in dementia?
Dementia can apply to Parkinson’s disease with cognitive impact being a large part of the disorder which is often overlooked. I wanted to work on dementia and the brain in general as I have a desire to help people and hate an unsolved mystery. The brain how it works and why it breaks down presents possibly the biggest mystery in our immediate vicinity and one that if solved, can benefit people worldwide.
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
Heroes by Stephen fry [2]. Provides a witty and insightful look into ancient Greek mythology, both dramatizing as well as providing context and explanation of the likely origin and subsequent impact. I have always loved myth and legend and find it gives useful analogies to describe situations and events which is often a useful trait when describing science. Highly Recommend.