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Natalia Chemas
Name:
Natalia Chemas
Job title:
Doctoral Research Fellow
Place of work / study:
Queen Mary University of London
Area of Research:
Alzheimer’s disease – blood biomarkers validity and applicability
How is your work funded:
NIHR Doctoral Research Fellowship grant
Tell us a little about yourself:
I am a second-year NIHR-funded PhD student researching equitable approaches to AD diagnosis in diverse populations. My work focuses on evaluating the blood biomarker pTau217 as a non-invasive and cost-effective diagnostic tool, examining whether abnormality thresholds are transferable across ethnic groups and acceptable within minoritised ethnic communities in the UK. Using mixed methods—including systematic review, clinical data analysis, and qualitative research with patients and stakeholders—I aim to contribute to improving the diagnostic accuracy and acceptability of biomarker testing across diverse populations. Ultimately, I hope my research will help patients make informed decisions about testing and support NHS memory clinics serving diverse communities.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
My surname, Chemas, comes from the Hebrew Shemesh, meaning “sun.” My grandfather always told us that we had an ancestor who fled the Ottoman Empire and migrated to Colombia (where I’m from). We used to think he was lying—until I moved here and people from the region recognised the surname – sorry, grandpa.
Why did you choose to work in dementia?
I was drawn to dementia because of my close relationship with my grandparents growing up, which gave me a deep affection for older adults. Seeing how central memory and identity are at that stage of life made the impact of dementia feel especially profound and unfair. I was also aware that women are disproportionately affected, both as those living with dementia and as caregivers. Working in this field feels meaningful because it focuses on supporting people at a vulnerable stage of life and feels like an investment in our future selves.
What single piece of advise would you give to an early career researcher?
Don’t be afraid to ask for help—people are often kinder and more willing than you expect.
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
The Menopause Brian – Lisa Mosconi
Favourite film of all time?
Avatar (first one)
Favourite ways to unplug and unwind?
Running! I am training for a marathon and I am also a pacer at the RunClub
What’s the best decision you ever made?
I don’t think there’s a single “best” decision, but I’ve consistently chosen the more challenging path. So far, those choices have led me to growth, opportunities, and outcomes I’m proud of
What’s your favourite vacation spot?
There is one for every occasion/mood 😀
Do you collect anything?
No
