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Dr Natalie Duggett
Name:
Dr Natalie Duggett
Job Title:
Science Programme Manager – early career researchers
Place of work / study:
UK Dementia Research Institute
Area of Research:
I lead on the research skills and training strategy across the UK DRI. As part of the Scientific Affairs Team, Natalie also leads on the development and coordination of intramural and extramural UK DRI funding programmes.
How is your work funded:
UK Dementia Research Institute
Tell us a little about yourself:
I joined the UK DRI in October 2024 after five years working at the NC3Rs. There, I led on the PhD studentship and Training Fellowship funding schemes, providing guidance to the research community, managing the application process, and offering post award support. I also coordinated wraparound training and support for students, Training Fellows, and postdoctoral researchers funded by the NC3Rs, and managed the International 3Rs Prize.
I hold a PhD from Durham University, where my research focused on mitochondria and chaperone proteins in models of ageing and Alzheimer’s disease. My interest in mitochondria then took me to King’s College London, where I spent over five years researching chemotherapy induced neuropathy before moving to the NC3Rs.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
Not sure
Why did you choose to work in dementia:
Family – I’ve had family members impacted by Parkinson’s disease, vascular dementia and Alzheimer’s disease and so it’s a cause incredibly close to my heart.
What single piece of of advice would you give to an early career researcher?
Learn every technique/technology or approach available when given the opportunity. You never know the path it may open up for you.
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
The Wintringham Mystery, by Anthony Berkeley. I love a classic crime/murder mystery novel. I’d recommend it for anyone who likes a ‘Golden age’ mystery – a rambling country house, a séance, a murder, a room locked on the inside, with servants, suspects and alibis, a romance – and an ingenious puzzle.
Favourite film of all time?
Not sure
Favourite ways to unplug and unwind?
I have two young children, and I enjoy playing and making up games with them to unwind.
What’s the best decision you ever made?
Deciding to do my PhD – it’s given me my husband, family, and a career I enjoy.
What’s the best vacation spot?
Not sure
Do you collect anything?
No
UK DRI