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Rhian Convery
Name:
Dr Rhian Convery
Job Title:
Research Fellow
Place of work / study:
University College London
Area of Research:
Digital biomarkers for the early detection of Frontotemporal dementia (FTD)
How is your work funded:
My research is funded through a Rosetrees research fellowship
Tell us a little about yourself:
My research focuses on investigating biomarkers of frontotemporal dementia (FTD) for the detection of presymptomatic impairment. I have over six years’ experience working in the field, initially as a research assistant for the GENetic Frontotemporal dementia Initiative (GENFI) study. In 2019, I started a PhD investigating digital biomarkers for the early detection of cognitive impairment in FTD, with a purpose of developing reliable outcome measures for upcoming clinical trials. I have since taken on the coordination of the Early Detection of Frontotemporal dementia (EDoF) initiative, managing several studies of digital and/or portable methods of assessing speech, activity levels, motor function, and cognition in FTD.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
When I am not reading journal articles, you will usually find me lost in a novel, modern or classic, I don’t discriminate. Like many mid-30-somethings, I have also entered my ‘running era’… though who knows how long it will last!
Why did you choose to work in dementia:
I have always been fascinated by the brain and how it works, and when I began my research journey in FTD, I was deeply struck by the condition and its impact on individuals and their families.
What single piece of of advice would you give to an early career researcher?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and seek mentorship, nobody expects you to know everything at the start! The best researchers grow by learning from others and building strong collaborations.
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
Audition by Katie Kitamura – it is a beautifully written novel about memory and the stories we tell about ourselves. I would recommend it for the way it stays with you long after you have put it down!
Favourite film of all time?
Not sure
Favourite ways to unplug and unwind?
Reading
What’s the best decision you ever made?
Moving to London!
What’s the best vacation spot?
Anywhere outside of London!
Do you collect anything?
No
Adam Smith
