Our blogs cover a whole range of topics, to help early career dementia researchers (ECRs). Our contributors share information about their research, from social care to basic science, share advice from their own experiences, careers tips, what they learned from recent training events and conferences and much more. We have a small team of ECR staff bloggers who write each month, on a whole range of topics and every year we add more people who discuss their experiences of studying at particular places or on different topics. In addition to our staff bloggers, we welcome one-off contributions, and curate and link to content from other great sources, including our charity partners, the LSE Impact Blog, Nature Careers and where ever great support can be found.
To help find what you're looking for, you can browse through the articles, or use the filters on the right to find blogs by a particular person, or on a particular topic.
We are always on the lookout for new contributors, so if you would like to write for us, just head to the forum to drop us a line, or email dementiaresearcher@nihr.ac.uk
All of our blogs (since April 2020) come with narrations from the writer. You can listen while you read along on our website, or enjoy our blogs on the move via your podcast app. You can subscribe to our narrated blogs in your podcasts app, look for Dementia Researcher Blogs, or visit one of these platforms, Podbean, iTunes, Spotify and Goodpods.
Recent posts
Blog – It’s not the end, it’s a new beginning
After 3.5 yrs & 32 blogs charting her PhD story, we’re sorry to be saying goodbye to Dr Beth Eyre as a regular blogger. Read her final words of wisdom.
Blog – How to implement Patient & Public Involvement as a lab scientist
Explore Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali’s insights on integrating patient & public input in lab research for impactful science. #PublicInvolvement
Blog – Listening: Key to Effective PI Leadership
Discover the power of listening in leadership with Adam Smith’s latest blog – a must-read for every PI aiming to excel in guiding research teams.
Blog – What It’s Really Like Being a PI
Discover the real PI life with Dr Yvonne Couch’s insights on academia’s challenges, from grant writing to lab management (and sometimes research).
Blog – Maternity Leave Priorities
Update blog from Emily Spencer sharing the highs & lows of maternity leave, from cinema trips to academic rejections. #MaternityLeaveChronicles
Blog – Art-based communication for dementia & brain health
Unveil the fusion of art and science in dementia research with Dr. Jodi Watt’s insights on creative expression’s role in brain health.
Blog – Pulling together your PhD thesis
Hannah Hussain shares insights on PhD thesis writing, as she comes to the final stages of completing her own! Structure understanding, feedback & storytelling
Blog – The Pros and Cons of using iPSCs in Dementia Research
Uncover the impact of iPSCs on dementia study with Ajantha Abey, revealing both the promise and challenges in this vital research area.
Blog – Eye as a Biomarker for AD PIA Year in Review Recap
Dr Beth Eyre reflects on the ISTAART Eye as a Biomarker for AD PIA Year in Review webinar, sharing the latest developments from the field.
Blog – PhD Finances & Maternity: A Reality
Emily Spencer explores maternity & PhD life, discussing the financial strain of childcare, the implications of stipends, and the need for better support systems
Blog – How ‘Publish or Perish’ Harms Research Commercialisation
Explore the impact of ‘Publish or Perish’ on research with Dr Sam Moxon’s insightful take on the challenges facing academia’s commercial side.
Blog – Making your presentations more accessible
Explore accessible presentation tips with Jodi Watt. Learn to enhance inclusivity in your talks, ensuring everyone benefits. Perfect your skills now!
Blog – Research Impact: Beginning at the End
Discover Rebecca Williams’ insights on ensuring research creates real-world change from day one. Her dedication to impactful science is set to inspire!
Blog – Appraising and planning for the next year
It’s important to map out your work! Embrace planning ahead with Dr. Anna Volkmer’s blog, as she talks about her work and whats coming on the horizon.
Blog – Let’s Talk About Sex
Explore the complexities of gender differences in health with Dr Yvonne Couch. A must-read for anyone interested in the scientific nuances of sex.
Blog – How to use basic AI as a daily research tool
Ajantha Abey explores explores the use of AI for research support; from writing to generating ideas, while being aware of its limits… and ethics
Blog – The price of deception, Academia’s dark side
Dr Gaia Brezzo discusses the pervasive issue of academic fraud, exploring motivations behind it & proposing solutions for a more ethical research environment
Blog – My experience as an ISTAART Ambassador
Sára Erzsebet Zsadányi writes her first blog for Dementia Researcher, talking about her experience as an ISTAART Ambassador – you too could join the programme!
Blog – Nonpharmacological interventions PIA Year in Review Recap
Marija Taneska shares highlights from the recent ISTAART Nonpharmacological interventions PIA Year in Review Webinar which included a focus on new digital tools
Blog – British Neuropathological Society Meeting Highlights
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali discusses cutting-edge neuropathology at the 125th BNS meeting, highlighting collaborative prospects in neurodegeneration research.
Blog – ‘Winding down’ Preparing for maternity leave
Discover how Emily Spencer expertly manages her academic PhD challenges while gearing up for maternity leave.🌟 #ParentingInAcademia
Blog – Intellect on the Clock: Value-Led Time
Dr Dorothy Tse shares tips on how you can be strategic in your time management to help ensure you achieve your goals. Essential reading for new PI’s.
Blog – Coping with distress: the strength of caregivers
Exploring the resilience of caregivers, Hannah Hussain addressesthe challenges of coping with the distress of dementia, especially under adverse conditions.
Blog – Nutrition, Metabolism & Dementia PIA Year in Review Recap
Explore insights on nutrition, brain health & dementia prevention with Sam’s review of the ISTAART Nutrition, Metabolism & Dementia PIA Year in Review Webinar
Blog – Dementia Researcher, Bringing Communities Together
Adam Smith shares news about the launch of the Dementia Researcher Communities App, and how Community Leaders can use its free groups functionality
Blog – A Whimsical Research Culture
Rebecca Williams reveals how fun little things, from board games to quirky emails, can profoundly shape research culture and personal authenticity in academia.
Blog – Subjective Cognitive Decline PIA Year in Review Recap
Dr Beth Eyre reflects on the ISTAART Subjective Cognitive Decline PIA Year in Review webinar, sharing the latest developments from the field.
Blog – Reflections on a challenging PhD
Dr. Jodi Watt’s raw PhD tale: a journey from feeling ‘ruined’ to profound self-recovery. Read or listen to discover resilience in academia.
Blog – Building non-academic collaborations
Dr Clarissa Giebel explores how non-academic partnerships enhance research and care practice, and helping the North West Coast Living Lab in Ageing and Dementia
Blog – Aging in Pre-Clinical Research
Uncover the nuances of age-related research variables in Dr Yvonne Couch’s blog and join her in discussing the challenge of working with older mice.
Blog – Which hat to wear? Navigating industry-academic partnerships
Explore how to balance a position that crosses dementia research in industry & academia in this blog from Kate Turley exploring innovative collaborations.
Blog – Moving forward from disappointment
Had some bad news? Explore Dr Anna Volkmer’s journey through the trials of academic funding and learn how resilience shapes success.
Blog – 2023: A Landmark Year for Public Understanding of Dementia?
Discover 2023’s pivotal role in dementia understanding with Dr Sam Moxon’s analysis. Unlock the insights in his must-read guest blog!
Blog – Mastering the PhD Journey: Key Application Insights
Unlock PhD success with Ajantha Abey’s expert advice on preparing your application. Gain clarity and confidence on your academic journey! #PhDtips
Blog – Unlocking the lecturing toolkit; preparing your first lecture
Elevate your lecturing craft (and keep your students awake) with Dr Gaia Brezzo’s expert tips on delivering your first engaging and impactful lecture.
Blog – When to say “no” to new opportunities
Gain insights on setting professional limits with Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali’s blog on why it’s crucial to say “no” to certain opportunities (and when to say yes).
Blog – Biofluid-based biomarkers PIA Year in Review Recap
Dr Aitana Sogorb-Esteve reflects on the ISTAART Biofluid-based biomarkers PIA Year in Review webinar, sharing the latest developments from the field.
Blog – Who am I? Navigating identity as a parent
Explore Emily Spencer’s journey as she intertwines PhD pursuits with new motherhood, challenging norms & reshaping identity. 🌟 #ParentingInAcademia
Blog – The Economics of Dementia
Uncover the hidden economic impact of dementia in the UK with PhD Student Hannah Hussain’s blog, revealing costs and solutions for a sustainable future.
Blog – MEGry Christmas to All!
Discover the magic of MEG and the future of neuroimaging in this festive themed blog from Rebecca Williams – unlock insights into the brain’s mysteries!
Blog – 2023 Unfiltered: An honest diary of a researcher
Follow Dr. Connor Richardson’s year in dementia research, from an NIHR fellowship to major publications and insights into overcoming personal challenges
Blog – Navigating the holidays after a relative is diagnosed with dementia
Dr Jodi Watt shares personal insights on adapting holiday traditions, which can remain inclusive & joyful, after relatives are diagnosed with dementia.
Blog – Christmas a time for reflection & anticipation
Explore the magic of Christmas & anticipation for 2024 in Dr Clarissa Giebel’s blog. Reflect on achievements, embrace opportunities + enjoy biscuits & green tea
Blog – Reflections on my (kind of) first year as a post-doc
Beth Eyre’s latest blog is a candid reflection on the first months of her post-doc journey, discussing realities and challenges of academia. Visit her new world
Blog – Frazzled Brains, Academic Burnout
In the first part of our two blog burnout special, Dr Yvonne Couch’s explores the complexities of burnout with some insightful analysis & personal experience.
Blog – Unfrazzled Brains, 10-4 to stop Burnout
In the second part of our two blog burnout special, Rebecca Williams shares insights on beating academic burnout and achieving work-life balance.
Blog – The (core) academic skill of receiving feedback
Discover the art of feedback with Dr Anna Volkmer’s blog – a guide to embracing critique for personal growth and academic success.
Blog – Why the Link Between Obesity & Dementia is Good News
Explore Dr Sam Moxon’s blog on the positive twist in obesity-dementia link. Discover how lifestyle choices can empower us against dementia.
Blog – The path less travelled
Explore Emily Spencer’s journey from a bookish child to a PhD student at UCL, balancing research and impending motherhood, on her blog ‘The Path Less Travelled’
Blog – The importance of good mentorship
Explore the value of mentorship with Dr Clarissa Giebel’s blog on finding guidance and inspiration at every stage, from PhD to senior leadership.
Blog – Tokenism and the challenges of diverse recruitment
Dr Jodi Watt’s blog offers a thought-provoking look at tokenism and its consequences in academic diversity and recruitment practices.
Blog – What is statistical mapping?
Explore statistical mapping with Hannah Hussain’s blog. From community pharmacy to PhD, learn how she navigated quantitative research challenges.
Blog – Building blocks and supervision skills
Dr Anna Volmer shares the story of her transition from PhD Student to PhD Supervisor, focusing on student growth and research team building.
Blog – The Horror of P-Values
Dive into the spine-chilling world of p-values with Rebecca Williams’ blog! Uncover the horrors and hope of statistics in a thrilling read. 👻📊
Blog – Feeling Overwhelmed? Get away from your desk!
Struggling with work stress? Dr. Sam Moxon’s blog reveals the secret to balancing productivity and self-care. Take a break, read now!
Blog – How to make your PhD application stand out
Boost your PhD application with insider tips from Beth Eyre on creating a standout CV and personal statement. Show passion, be prepared!
Blog – Tony Husband, raising awareness of dementia with cartoons
Remembering Tony Husband: his poignant dementia cartoons continue to raise awareness and inspire. Read Dr. Giebel’s tribute to his lasting legacy.
Blog – Critical Roles That Fuel Clinical Trials
Adam Smith’s blog spotlights the hidden heroes in clinical trials & warns that staff shortages could impede progress as wave of new trials sit on the horizon
Blog – How is working from home affecting research culture in universities?
Dr Connor Richardson discusses how remote work is shaping University research culture. Learn about its perks, pitfalls, and impact on early career researchers.
Blog – Sorting FACS from fiction
Dive into Dr Gaia Brezzo’s blog on FACS, a key immunology tool. Learn the difference between FACS & flow cytometry, and its impact on cellular research.
Blog – Alzheimer’s treatments: Game-changers or false hope?
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali examines new Alzheimer’s drug treatments. Are they breakthroughs or just fueling false hopes? A balanced, must-read take on recent research
Blog – Presenting your Research to a Lay Audience
Dr Yvonne Couch on mastering the art of presenting science to non-experts: simplicity, visuals & relatability are key. Make research resonate!
Blog – Advocating for Yourself in Academia
Struggle to say ‘no’ in academia? Dr. Jodi Watt shares tips on self-advocacy. Learn tools to navigate your career & maintain work-life balance. Must-read!
Blog – How to find a PhD… an insider’s guide!
Unlock the secrets to finding your ideal PhD with Beth Eyre’s insider guide. The best sources, leveraging social media and more. Your PhD journey starts here!
Blog – Using Time Tracking for Time Management
Master time management with tips from Ajantha Abey. Discover how Time Tracking can transform your academic and personal life. Don’t just guess, measure!
Blog – Let’s Talk about Impact
Unlock the hidden power of research with Dr Clarissa Giebel’s blog. Learn how small actions can change dementia care & empower lives.
Blog – Study Recruitment and the Sample Size Jinx
Dr Anna Volkmer unpacks study recruitment challenges in PCA. Learn about ethical dilemmas, sample size, and patient willingness. A must-read for researchers
Blog – Starting a PhD: How to Know Nothing
Navigating a PhD? Rebecca Williams’ blog explores why “knowing nothing” is crucial in academia. A must-read for new researchers seeking reassurance and insight.
Blog – When to Find Funding as a Post-Doc
Navigating post-doc funding? Dr Yvonne Couch’s blog is your essential guide! From small grants to junior fellowships, get insider tips to secure your future.
Blog – The Naked Truth About My Academic Confidence
Dr Jodi Watt explores academic confidence, from fast speech to imposter syndrome. Her surprising key to confidence? Life modelling.
Blog – The Role of Luck in Academic Success
Dr Yvonne Couch explores the role of luck in academia, highlighting that success is often a blend of skill, preparation & serendipity. A must-read for academics
Blog – World Alzheimer’s Day 23: A new era of optimism
For World Alzheimer’s Day, Ajantha Abey zooms in to consider the progress being made in developing new drugs to beat the disease.
Blog – Be Your Own Benchmark: Measuring Your Career Journey
Dr Sam Moxon’s talks about imposter syndrome, how job changes can bring a flare up., and why setting personal benchmarks is key to sustainable career growth
Blog – Beyond the manuscript: disentangling academic authorship
Dr Gaia Brezzo demystifies academic authorship. Sharing her experience to discuss key roles, navigating grey areas, and avoiding disputes – essential for ECRs.
Blog – Demystifying the PhD
Uncover the complexities of a UK PhD with Dr. Beth Eyre’s blog “Demystifying the PhD.” From funding to stages, it’s your go-to guide for a doctoral journey.
Blog – Population Studies: Examples of how they are helping
Read Connor’s blog on CFAS! Learn about a decline in dementia, challenges in MCI diagnosis, and dementia’s complex neuropathology. A must for ageing research!
Blog – Sharing Time and Brain Space
Honest insights of parenthood in UK academia. In this blog Dr Vitor Zimmerer shares his journey of love, challenges, & hope for our Family LIfe & Research week.
Blog – Reconsidering The Leaky Pipeline
Dive into Dr Jodi Watt’s blog, where they challenge academia’s “leaky pipeline” metaphor, spotlighting queer experiences, inclusion, and diversity.
Blog – Barriers to Innovation & what it means for Dementia Research
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali uncovers barriers to scientific innovation in dementia research – resistance, funding biases, & cultural hurdles. Embrace change for progress
Blog – How Dogs Are Helping Us Understand And Solve
Discover dogs’ vital role in dementia research through Ajantha Abey’s blog, uncovering canine insights into human disease.
Blog – Self-Report: It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it
Rebecca Williams’ discusses self-report scales in psychological research, talking complexity & cautioning against assumptions and advocating tailored approaches
Blog – How to Prepare a Keynote Talk
Master the art of captivating keynote talks with Dr Sam Moxon’s expert tips – engage your audience, tell a compelling story, and leave a lasting impact.
Blog – Cracking the Viva: Preparing for PhD Success
Join Dr (pending minor corrections) Beth Eyre on her triumphant viva journey, as she shares indispensable tips to conquer your PhD defense with confidence.
Blog – Organ-On-Chip and Organoid Technologies
Dr Yvonne Couch’s blog emphasises the importance of mentoring in academia for mental health and academic success, advocating for compulsory mentoring programmes
Blog – Learning about dementia care in India
Explore Dr. Clarissa Giebel’s insightful global research odyssey in dementia care, revealing the power of direct engagement & collaborations in India.
Blog – I didn’t know who I was after my PhD
Dr Jodi Watt’s blog explores their path as a “dabbler,” talking about academic pressure and their ongoing efforts for self-discovery after PhD life.
Blog – Navigating Collaborative Science
Dr Gaia Brezzo explores collaborative science’s evolution, lab dynamics, and positive citizenship in this insightful blog full of top tips.
Blog – Improving clinician-academic partnerships
Explore the transformative potential of clinician-academic partnerships in advancing dementia research with Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali’s insightful blog.
Blog – Why You Should Teach Alongside Your Research
Discover the joy of teaching: as a PhD student, embrace the classroom to enrich your research, communication skills, and future prospects – Ajantha Abey
Blog – Population Studies: What we have learned and why we need them
Dr Connor Richardson discusses population-based studies to understanding cognitive function distribution, and effective strategies for older individuals
Blog – How to Build your Academic Network
Dr Sam Moxon highlights the importance of collaboration in dementia research and offers practical tips to nurture effective partnerships.
Blog – Science Communication, Reaching Out of the Bubble
Rebecca Williams – Break Barriers and Inspiring Change: A Science Communication Journey from a Small Town Dreamer to Oxford, and How You Can Make a Difference.
Blog – Getting yourself a Senior academic promotion
Dr Aida Suarez-Gonzalez provides valuable tips for achieving senior academic promotions. Get the recognition you deserve.
Blog – More than a paper, co-designing a board game
How do you ensure your research findings have impact? Dr Clarissa Giebel tried a new approach, making research findings into a board game.
Blog – Isolation in Academia
Dr Yvonne Couch’s blog emphasises the importance of mentoring in academia for mental health and academic success, advocating for compulsory mentoring programmes
Blog – Conference Countdown: Mastering the Art of Preparation
In this blog by Hannah Hussain, llearn how to prepare for a conference and when you get there, how to maximise your experience
Blog – Pivoting your research area
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali shares her experience of pivoting research areas during postdoc positions, emphasising the importance of leveraging existing skills.
Blog – 5 things I wish I had known about writing up my PhD thesis
Beth Eyre gives tips for PhD thesis writing, emphasising routine, realistic expectations, separating writing and editing, and completion over perfection.
Blog – Why Dementia Patients Deteriorate in Hospital
In this blog Dr Sam Moxon shares his grandfather’s experience of rapid dementia decline in hospital, emphasising the need for improved dementia care & support
Blog – Sustainable Travel to International Conferences
With the AAIC around the corner, Adam Smith talks about the importance of ‘Carbon offsetting’ for conference travel, why you should, and how you can.
Blog – My experience as an LGBTQIA+ postgraduate & PhD student
As Pride Month comes to a close, Dr Jodi Watt shares some key key takeaways based on personal experience as a queer postgraduate student in science.
Blog – A Beginner’s Guide to Preparing for a Big Conference
This guide from Ajantha Abey provides strategies for maximising the conference experience – planning, prioritisation, effective networking, note-taking + more
Blog – Digital Biomarkers, A New Era in MND Research and Care
Mark Crook-Rumsey talks about his and the UKDRI work in Digital biomarkers, and their potential to revolutionise Motor Neuron Disease (MND) research.
Blog – Fading stars: disorder in the galaxy of the brain
Dr Chris Henstridge explores the connection between synapse loss, cognitive decline, and overlapping symptoms in Frontotemporal Dementia & Motor Neuron Disease
Blog – Are Sportspeople More Prone to MND?
Is there a link between contact sports, repetitive head trauma & diseases like Motor Neurone Disease & Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy? Dr Sam Moxon explores
Blog – UK Motor Neuron Disease Research Institute
Dr Jane Haley, Director of Research from MND Scotland discusses the launch of the new UK MND Research Institute -accelerating the hunt for new treatments.
Blog – Searching for the ‘whole’ scientist, juggling academia
Dr Gaia Brezzo discusses the struggle of balancing multiple aspects of an academic career, and the importance of taking time for higher-level thinking.
Blog – Visiting other research labs, a personal reflection
Dr Anna Volkmer talks about visiting other labs as a valuable opportunity to enable collaboration, inspiration & personal growth, providing fresh perspectives.
Blog – Where LGBTQIA+ identities intersect with dementia
Dr Jodi Watt explores LGBTQIA+ identities & dementia research, highlighting the lack of inclusion & unique challenges faced by LGBTQIA+ people with dementia
Blog – Coding, Lessons from a Seamstress
Rebecca Williams talks to the parallels between sewing and coding, offering advice for beginners & encouraging you to embrace failure as part of the process.
Blog – How to Make a Female Professor
How do you get more female Professors? Feed the system with more female ECRs? Address the leaky pipeline? Or a big rethink? Dr Yvonne Couch explores
Blog – Navigating the aisles: Assessing dementia-friendliness of supermarkets
The blog discusses the assessment of a supermarket’s dementia-friendliness, highlighting the challenges faced by people with dementia in navigating and shopping
Blog – How the ARC influenced my career in dementia research
Dr Clarissa Giebel explores how the NIHR Applied Research Collaboration helped her career, emphasising PPI, collaboration & opportunity to supervise ECRs
Blog – How does an idea turn into a clinical product?
Dr Sam Moxon explores the journey of turning an idea into a clinical product, emphasizing implementation, regulations, funding, and market research.
Blog – Conference Insights: Top 10 Takeaways in Dementia Research
Ajantha Abey shares insights from recent conferences: Therapeutic breakthroughs, biomarker revolution, digital innovation, spatial transcriptomics and more!
Blog – How to include people with dementia in research
New blog for Dementia Action Week providing practical strategies that researchers can adopt to support the inclusion of people living with dementia in research
Blog – Should you apply for a Lectureship?
Transitioning from a postdoc to Lectureship: Lessons learned and advice for aspiring academics on obtaining a permanent position. By Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali.
Blog – The many hats of a dementia researcher
Discover the Multifaceted World of Dementia Research in Beth Eyre’s Blog. Uncover the Numerous Hats Worn by Researchers during Their PhD Journey.
Blog – Developing a Plan B
Unlock Your Potential: Plan B with Dr Yvonne Couch. Discover new career paths beyond academia. Embrace your skills, network, seize opportunities!
Blog – Weightlifting is only for your younger years, right? … Wrong!
Fight Sarcopenia: Lift Weights to Improve Your Health. Discover how resistance training benefits older adults’ muscles, bones, heart, brain, and mood.
Blog – Back to Research
Learn about the Daphne Jackson Trsut Fellowships and hear how it has helped people return to research after an extended career break.
Blog – The Blot thickens; using Western Blotting in research
Unlock the secrets of Western Blotting! Dr Gaia Brezzo goes through the science, its use in small vessel disease, techniques & troubleshooting tips in this blog
Blog – Does my patient understand what my research study is about?
Are people with dementia and communication difficulties being omitted from research by the policy thats there to help them? Dr Anna Volkmer discusses consent.
Blog – Halving Social Care Reform Budget, what it means to dementia
Dr Clarissa Giebel discusses the potential impact of the governments new policy towards health and social care reform in the UK.
Blog – Non-pharmacological interventions
Dr Aida Suarez-Gonzalez provides tips for new researchers to the field of non-pharmacological interventions in dementia, to get you off to a good start
Blog – The Academic Exodus
Dementia Research and Academia in general has a leaky pipeline, but why? Is academia still a ‘good job for life?’ Dr Sam Moxon explores whats going wrong.
Blog – What is an ‘Early Career Researcher’?
With her recent appointment to the position of Lecturer Kam realised… that she lost her ‘Early Career Researcher’ Badge, so what defines you as an ECR?
Blog – Getting Involved in Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Leadership
Dr Connor Richardson writes a personal and practical account of what working in EDI means, why he got involved and what they do.
Blog – Apathy Research: Why Should We Bother?
Did you know, Apathy affects over 90% of people with behavioural variant frontotemporal dementia? Rebecca Williams discusses the topic and her research.
Blog – The Impact of a Paper
Does the number of papers you write = promotion? Yvonne looks at the journal industry, impact and connections to your career – it may influence your next paper
Blog – Sharing dementia knowledge and support with other countries
Publishing your research findings in journals isn’t the only way you can share what you discover through your research. Dr Clarissa Giebel explains in this blog
Blog – Introduction to Psychometrics
Hannah Hussain provides an introduction to psychometrics after using them in her own work for outcome development and validation.
Blog – Dementia Research and Advocacy
There are many ways in which you can use your research and your knowledge to advocate. Dr Aida Suárez-Gonzalez talks about advocacy hoping it inspires you too
Blog – Moving four-ward; could a 4-day working week work in academia?
Do you need to work smarter and harder to succeed in academia? Or just smarter? Dr Gaia Brezzo talks about a new way of working
Blog – From Journal Clubs to Letter Writing for ECRs: Why and How
Dr Timothy Daly encourages ECRs to build on their existing journal clubs to take the step towards publishing letters as part of their professional development
Blog – My Path to an NIHR ARC Dementia Fellowship
Connor has been awarded an NIHR Applied Research Collaboration (ARC) Dementia Fellowship, in tihs blog he talks us through his experience of applying.
Blog – Every penny counts, small grant applications
Dr Anna Volkmer may be a Senior Researcher, but she still applies for small grants and she thinks you should too, and here is why…
Blog – Should we get paid for peer review?
The academic publishing industry is more profitable than the music industry… so should you get paid for peer review? Dr Sam Moxon discusses
Blog – Using immunohistochemistry to understand disease pathology
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali provides an introduction to immunohistochemistry and how it is used to diagnose neurodegenerative diseases post-mortem
Blog – Gender equity in science & celebrating women’s achievements
It’s International Women’s Day. Dr Clarissa Giebel highlights the many things fantastic women have achieved, and where we’re at with gender equality.
Blog – How to find a Postdoc Job
If you’re finishing your PhD, and not ready to apply for Junior Fellowships… you may need to find a Postdoc Job. Beth Eye has some suggestions.
Blog – Find the right journal for your research & avoid predators
Adam Smith takes us through how to spot predatory publishers (and that that means) and provides some ideas on how to find the right journal for your work
Blog – How Being Seen Might Matter in Science
In this blog Dr Yvonne Couch talks about the importance of having a reputation in science, and how it might be possible to build one.
Blog – Vitamins, Food Supplements & Dementia
How do vitamins and food supplements impact the brain? Pharmacist and PhD Student Hannah Hussain takes us through their role.
Blog – 5 things I wish I knew before starting my PhD
Anna Marie Rosická has learned a few lessons since starting her PhD, and in this blog she shares them, so that you can benefit from her hindsight
Blog – How to Navigate a Job Switch
Sam started a new job this month, which we know can be stressful, in this blog he writes about how you can make transition easier.
Blog – To cross or not to cross the picket line: striking as an ECR
Dr Gaia Brezzo talks through the University & College Union / Universities dispute over pensions, pay & conditions and the dilemma of for her and ECRs affected.
Blog – Am I in “Career Drift Mode?”
Sometimes you need to ask yourself some tough questions, are you happy? Is your career on track? At the end of 2022 Dr Connor Richardson did just that.
Blog – Writing a paper with lots of co-authors
Dr Anna Volkmer shares her tips on writing a manuscript with multiple co-authors, a daunting process for any early career researcher.
Blog – Public Involvement & Engagement in Research
Tips from an expert! Dr Clarissa Giebel shares some simple and easy to follow pointers to deliver good Patient & Public Involvement in your research.
Blog – Building positive narratives about dementia
Exciting news… Dr Aida Suárez-Gonzalez was awarded UCL Global Engagement Funds to co-produce positive narratives about dementia – find out more in her blog.
Blog – Peer Reviewing Grant Applications
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali recently had her first experience as a grant reviewer (no pressure). In this blog she shares her experience, to help new reviewers.
Blog – Writing a fellowship application
Coming to the end of your PhD? So is Beth Eyre, and in this blog she talks about what she has learned making her first fellowship application.
Blog – Procrastination the Thief of Time
Dr Yvonne Couch is a big procrastinator. In this blog she talks about why, if it’s a bad thing… and if anything can be done about it.
Blog – The value of academic travel & face-to-face networking
Research needs to be international and collaborative, in this blog Dr Clarissa Giebel talks about her recent trip to Australia and the benefits it brought.
Blog – Why ECRs need Good Mentors
In this blog Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali shares her experience of being part of two different mentoring schemes and discusses why ECRs need good mentors.
ISTAART Blog – Fostering inclusivity in dementia research and teams
ISTAART Partnering with Research Participants PIA Blog. Dr Diana Karamacoska shares tips on making research accessible, inclusive & equitable (also in Spanish)
Blog – Outcomes matter!
Hannah Hussain talks through how we measure ‘health outcomes’, important when evaluating if the treatment or intervention was successful.
Blog – Evaluation of Singing & Dancing Interventions for Dementia
Delighted to welcome Dr Megan Polden, Postdoc Researcher at University in Liverpool. In her 1st blog Megan talks us through her work and this exciting new study
Blog – Advance planning for research participation
Could advanced research directives be helpful in overcoming the barriers to research participation? Dr Victoria Shepherd has been taking a look at the problem.
Blog – Top Tips for Veganuary
There is an increasing body of evidence to support the benefits of a plant-based diet. In this blog Dr Sam Moxon shares tips for anyone partaking in Veganuary.
Blog – Reflections for 2022; another year of science
Dr Gaia Brezzo reflects on her careers and work in 2022 , and talks about the exciting science she has planned for the coming new year.
Blog – New Year’s Resolutions
Not agrees New Year’s resolutions are a good thing, but if you need a kick start there are a few simple rules to follow, Adam Smith shares in this blog
Blog – Avoiding Burnout: Taking stock(ings) over Christmas
It’s time to pause and reflect on the important things around us. Dr Clarissa Giebel is taking stock to get ready for 2023
Blog – Prioritising
Dr Yvonne Couch breaks down the challenge of career prioitise and how they can (can will need to) change throughout your career.
Blog – My Research Career from Biochemistry to Biostatistics
Dr Connor Richardson brings us part two of his introduction, taking us through how one step leads to another in his career to date.
Blog – Addressing Market Failure: why we can’t let the market win
Market failure is when market forces cause poorer societal welfare – So is dementia care a market failure? Nathan Stephens discusses
Blog – Looking back on 2022: A year of change
In his last blog for 2022, Dr Sam Moxon reflects on the year and shares a personal and professional perspective on events
Blog – INTERDEM Taskforce exploring Inequalities in Care
Dr Clarissa Giebel reports back from the Alzheimer Europe Conference and a new effort from INTERDEM to research Inequalities in Dementia Care
Blog – Should failure be normalised in academia?
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali had a bad few months, and in this blog she asks the question: should failure be normalised in academia?
Blog – Early career research events: to attend or not to attend?
How do you decide what events to, or not to attend? Is attending worthwhile? Dr Gaia Brezzo discusses in this months blog
Blog – Stem Cells
Stem Cells, or specifically induced pluripotent stem cells. what they are, why people use them & what’s their use in dementia research, Dr Yvonne Couch explores
Blog – Embedding PPI in our ReadClear Tech Trial
Dr Aida Suárez-Gonzalez created the ReadClear app to support reading in people with PCA, in this blog she talks to colleagues about PPI & Co-production
Blog – Connor Richardson Introduction
New blogger Dr Connor Richardson from Newcastle University introduces himself and his work in the first of his regular blogs.
Blog – Designing and distributing questionnaires
Nathan has recently been developing questionnaires (for the first time) and in this blog he hopes to help others avoid his self-inflicted misfortune
Blog – BIG Data
Dr Yvonne Couch looks at BIG Data, its potential to improve provide insights into the causes and outcomes of disease, and enhanced prediction & prevention
Blog – Technology to Help Care
Danielle Wilson from the UK Dementia Research Institute discusses her passion of tech research and its ability to augment care
Blog – The benefits and drawbacks of accessing post-diagnostic support remotely
The COVID-19 pandemic caused shift from accessing post-diagnostic dementia support in-person, to remotely – Is this a good thing? Blog by Thaïs Caprioli
Blog – Advances in digital cognitive assessments for dementia diagnosis
In this blog Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali discusses how technology is being used to advance cognitive assessments used in dementia diagnosis.
Blog – Communicating Smart Technology
What is the point of tech if people can’t use it? Pippa is a Speech & Lanuage Therapist helping to get better input into design & delivery of dementia tech
Blog – Nanomedicine in Dementia Research
Are nanoparticles 100-10,000 times smaller than a human cell be the answer to crossing the blood-brain barrier? New blog from Dr Sam Moxon
Blog – Digital phenotyping in dementia and neurology: we have questions
Digital interactions could be useful for tracking health & brain disorders. But is it that simple? Dr Alan Cronemberger Andrade discusses Tech & Dementia Week.
Blog – Virtual Reality
Virtual Reality isn’t just for fun gaming, it’s increasingly used as a valuable tool for dementia researchers. Hannah Hussain explore for tech & dementia week
Blog – Finding your cheer team: Maintaining resilience in academia
How do you feel when your colleagues win grants? Is it okay to celebrate success, when others around you are less fortunate? Anna has been conflcted
Blog – The importance of lived experience in research
Dr Gaia Brezzo discusses the importance of involving and engaging people with lived experience of disease in research, and her recent experience.
Blog – Hello imposter syndrome my old friend
Do you doubt your talents & accomplishments and have an internalised fear of being exposed as a fraud… this is normal and Beth Eyre discusses
Blog – Going on my own: Being my own boss for my new fellowship
Stepping out on your own doesn’t have to be scary, if you got this far, you’re ready. Dr Anna Volkmer discusses her new found research freedom.
Blog – Innovative long-term care for dementia
There are almost 14,500 Care Homes in England, Dr Clarissa Giebel has been working with their Dutch counterparts to see how the two approaches to care differ.
Blog – Is Leadership Important In Science?
Dr Yvonne Couch talks about leadership in research, exploring different styles and approaches and how you might apply them.
Blog – Writing my first grant application
Kam just wrote her first grant application (well not really her first) and in this blog she descrives how she went about it, and shares her tips
Blog – Are We Entering a “Golden Age” of Dementia Research
Dr Sam Moxon, from University of Manchester gives us a potted history lesson of Alzheimer’s Disease and drug treatments from 600AD to 2022
Blog – Teaching as an ECR, why take the time to do it?
Dr Gaia Brezzo explores how her joint research-teaching experience helped her as an ECR, and provides a few tips on teaching.
Blog – Two–photon microscopy: How can it be used in Alzheimer’s research?
Blog from Beth Eyre, exploring how two-photon microscopy can be used to help us learn more about Alzheimer’s disease & inform research.
Blog – A guide to Mixed Methods research design
Blog covering the things you’ll need to think about when planning a mixed methods research study – quick guide from Nathan Stephens
Blog – The outcome: My NIHR Advanced Fellowship App
Anna has some big news… and some top tips for anyone applying for an NIHR Advanced Fellowship, essential reading for Clinical Academics
Blog – World Alzheimer Report 2022, Post-diagnostic care or lack thereof
Dr Clarissa Giebel has been reading the Alzheimer’s Disease International World Alzheimer’s Report 2022 and in this blog she shares her thoughts
Blog – Angiogenesis
New blog from Dr Yvonne Couch providing a history of angiogenesis, and how after brain injury and in old age this may contribute to brain health.
Blog – Dr Gaia Brezzo Introduction
We welcome Dr Gaia Brezzo, Research Fellow at the UK Dementia Research Institute to our team of regular bloggers learn more about her and plans for her blog
Blog – From postdoc to lecturer, my first six months
Six months ago Kamar started a new position as lecturer in biomedical science in this blog, she shares her experience of the first six months of lectureship.
Blog – Physical Activity & Dementia
Blog from Nathan Stephens providing a brief introduction to the evidence base on physical activity and dementia, and exploring his only work on interventions.
Blog – Why should you apply to be an ISTAART Ambassador?
Beth Eyre talks about her experiences as an ISTAART Ambassador and the brilliant benefits the programme could bring for you.
Blog – Medicines Management in Dementia
Getting medicine use “right” has the potential to not only improve patient outcomes but also contribute to patient safety, Hannah Hussain explores
Blog – The Importance of Public Trust in Science
In this blog Dr Sam Moxon talks about the dangers of scientific misconduct and the importance of ethics and integrity in research.
Blog – From remote to face-to-face International Research in Colombia
Dr Clarissa Giebel wants her research to influence policy and bring about real change, but to do that you need to know how policy is decided.
Blog – The Great Academic Resignation
Heard of ‘Quit Lit’? Don’t look, it will only despress you. In this Dr Yvonne Couch discusses the great academic resignation and what needs to change.
Blog – How to prepare a search strategy for your systematic review
Dr Aida Suárez-Gonzalez discusses the importance of research exploring the age of dementia onset, and the influence on clinical expression
Blog – How academic misconduct affects ECRs
Academic misconduct damages public confidence in research, but how does it affect ECRs? in this blog Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali explores
Blog – Study Pre-registration: Say it, do it, share it.
Future-proof your research and Preregister your next study. In this blog Dr Anna Volkmer will explain why and the benefits.
Blog – Positionality and reflexivity, and why it’s not just for qualitative research
Nathan Stephens gets his head around positionality and reflexivity, two important essential concepts in qualitiative research
Blog – A guide to moving abroad as a PhD student
Beth Eyre provides a very practical guide of things you need to think about and plan for when moving overseas for a work placement
Blog – Making an impact: A week in Westminster with the Royal Society
Dr Clarissa Giebel wants her research to influence policy and bring about real change, but to do that you need to know how policy is decided.
Blog – Stepping outside of academia
Blog from PhD Student Hannah Hussain discussing the potenial careers you can choose, outside academia, following completion of your PhD.
Blog – How to be a Peer Reviewer
Dr Yvonne Couch provides her top tips and shares some great advise for early career researchers who are new to undertaking peer review.
Blog – Do you need research funding?
It’s a great time to need research funding…there is lots about. Adam Smith highlights some of the open funding calls & shares a few tips
Blog – Communication is one of your best research tools: Here’s why
Dr Sam Moxon talks to the importance of communications, that goes beyond Sci Comms, and why this it’s essential to your career success
Blog – Age at onset in atypical Alzheimer´s: why it matters
Dr Aida Suárez-Gonzalez discusses the importance of research exploring the age of dementia onset, and the influence on clinical expression
Blog – The value of conferences
Have you met Dr Clarissa Giebel in real life? Well, she has been out and about, and in this blog she discusses the value of in-person conferences.
Blog – Is it time to look at alternatives to rodent models?
In this blog Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali explores alternatives to mammalian models and considers whether they can drive a breakthrough
Blog – An incoherent blurb from an unpaid family care worker
You’ll already know Nathan Stephens the brilliant PhD Student, in this blog we get to Nathan Stephens the unpaid family carer
Blog – Do you have to be a good writer to be a successful academic?
Do you spend more time writing, or undertaking experiments? Did you expect that? Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali discusses in her new blog.
Blog – Negative Data
Dr Yvonne Couch talks about how ECRs can help the scientific field change by thinking about how, where and what we publish, and use the negative data.
Blog – Can Conversation Analysis infiltrate mainstream Dementia Research?
Do research funders and those responsible for comissioning service favour quantative research over qualitative? Dr Anna Volkmer thinks so
Blog – Are we Proactive Enough about Dementia?
Is dementia research going too slow? Or at a pretty rapid pace given the available resources? Dr Sam Moxon reflects on the pace and direction of research.
Blog – From PhD student to supervisor
Dr Clarissa Giebel is transitioning from doing all the research herself into supervising others (whilst also researching) in this blog we learn how its going
Blog – Top Tips to Nail your Research Job Interview
We’re delighted to welcome Dr Aida Suárez-Gonzalez as a staff blogger, in this great first contribution Aida has 5 top tips to help with your next interview.
Blog – How to give an engaging scientific presentation
Presenting in-person is different to presenting online, in this blog Beth Eyre share some (award winning) top tips for delivering a scientific presentation
Blog – Alzheimer’s Society Annual Conference
If you missed last weeks Alzheimer’s Society Conference don’t worry, Nathan Stephens was there and in this blog her shares his highlights.
Blog – Money Management
Dr Yvonne Couch talks you through planning and then managing the budget for your next research grant – it may be full, but it’s essential
Blog – Tops tips for your 1st literature review
Blog from PhD Student Hannah Hussain providing a complete guide to smashing out your first literature review – listen or read.
Blog – The Mental Struggle of Living with Chronic Illness
When Dr Sam Moxon was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis he knew there woudl be a physical challenge, but what about the mental health challenge…
Blog – A Mental Health Update
A new blog from Adam Smith for Mental Health Awareness Week, updating on his own experiences and the importance of talking.
Blog – Who cares for the carers?
As part of our focus for #MentalHealthAwarnessWeek Dr Clarissa Giebel considers support for carers, and what recent research tells us.
Blog – The Curse of the Three-Year Fellowship
Advice for those of you currently applying or considering applying for Fellowships. Pre-warning, Yvonne wasn’t very happy when writing.
Blog – The importance of including both sexes in preclinical dementia research
Could the bias towards studying male animals account for poor translation of preclinical dementia research to clinical? Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali explores
Blog – How to get the most out of your PhD experience
Beth has finished her last PhD experiment, prompting her to reflect on her PhD experience, and the oppertunities that others should keep an eye open for
Blog – What is value? A Concept Analysis
Have you ever been questioned about what a certain term actually means? For Nathan Stephens, this word was value. In this blog he explores what is means
Blog – Cannabinoids for better sleep?
Sleep is increasingly recognised as important in dementia but do Cannabinoids help? Masha Burelo, PhD Student from University of Aberdeen explores
Blog – Dementia in Down syndrome and the role of neuroinflammation
In her first blog Clíona Farrell discusses her research and why inclusion of people with Down syndrome is a key to understanding Alzheimer’s Disease.
Blog – Can fasting help prevent dementia?
We are in the middle of the holy month of Ramadhan, which prompted Hannah Hussain explore diet and fasting, and the benefits for health.
Blog – Aphasia, public awareness
Aphasia, Apraxia and Dysarthria something the public may be more aware of since news of Bruce Willis’s diagnosis. and it’s Dr Anna Volkmer’s specialist subject.
Blog – How to Present Your Research
Dr Yvonne Couch has a new blog which will help you avoid boring your colleagues, giving you the ins and outs of a good scientific presentation.
Blog – How to Nail Your Conference Abstract
Blog from Dr Sam Moxon providing top tips on how to write and prepare the perfect conference abstract, that WILL get accepted – Read or Listen.
Blog – How to approach networking as a PhD student
Beth Eyre shares some of the things she has learned about networking and what might help you during your own PhD – Read or listen.
Blog – The impact of furry friend’s on people living with dementia
Are you a proud pet parent? Hannah Hussain has been exploring how pets can help people living with dementia – read or listen.
Blog – Evaluating Complex Interventions
Nathan Stephens presents the explores how we evaluate complex interventions. Traditional techniques have there merits, but are they the ‘best’?
Blog – On feeling qualitative research, being naïve, and a wee bit of crying
Marianne Cranwell, sharing the unexpected emotions & feelings that have come from undertaking qualitative research with carers & people living with dementia
Blog – Do EDI policies provide sufficient support for ECRs?
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali explores whether EDI policies provide sufficient support for ECRs & considers the wider impact they might have on dementia research
Blog – Judging capacity: Insights from face-to-face and remote recruitment
Judging capacity & seeking informed consent from people with dementia can be challenging, Leanne Greene & Alex Gude share advise from the D-PACT Study
Blog – Quitting
Don’t panic Yvonne isn’t quitting, but she has been thinking about the motivation to quit, is there a good way, and would it make you happy?
Blog – Pesticides in Cannabis
Masha Burelo from University of Aberdeen has an interest in Cannabis an Cannabinoids in her latest blog in this series she discusses some of the risks
Blog – The making of the clinical academic…the façade is slipping
Dr Anna Volkmer questions how you sustain the Academic element of being a ‘Clinical Academic’, and how many hours per week justifies keepin the title?
Blog – Do we need to peer review the process of peer review?
Dr Sam Moxon discusses the process of how we publish new scientific data, the rigour and complexity, the process and the flaws
Blog – What is “brain health” and is it important?
In this blog Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali discusses the challenge of trying to understand brain health, some of the latest research and why it is important.
Blog – Am I doing PPI or Was that PPI?
Nathan discusses Public Patient Involvement, unpacking what that actually means in respect of other similar concepts such as participation and engagement
Blog – Running a Journal Club and how to be Reviewer 2 in a safe environment
Thinking of starting a journal club? Attending your first and not sure what to expect? Dr Clarissa Giebel shares her experiences
Blog – Dementia and stigma through the lenses of neuro-culture and neoliberalism
PhD Students Felicity Slocombe and Chloe Waterman explore neuro-culture and neoliberalism arguing these are negatively impacting people with dementia.
Blog – Dementia Champions, Inspiring or a false narrative?
Adam Smith talks about Dementia Champions, their work, living well with dementia and the overall narrative and how dementia is perceived as a result
Blog – Cannabinoids and Anxiety
Masha Burelo, PhD Student from University of Aberdeen is back with her second blog exploring the use of cannabinoids in anxiety.
Blog – Brain Imaging, Inside The Black Box
New blog from Dr Yvonne Couch bringing her usual fun to explore different types of brain imaging and how they’re applied.
Blog – Overseas collaborations
Anyone who knows Clarissa know’s that she is a big believer in collabroations, the pandemic may have changed how we work but its hasn’t dampened her enthusiam.
Blog – Women and Girls in Science: Agents of Change
Happy International Day of Women & Girls in Science! Hannah Hussain shares some of the science greats who have inspired her & shares stats on the challenges
Blog – The perils of ‘what next’…?
The last year of your PhD can be challenging, researching, writing, the viva… and the hard part… what next? Beth Eyre shares her thoughts and plans.
Blog – Research ‘Flies’ When You’re Having Fun
Jodi Parslow explains why Flies are one of science’s most useful model organisms & gives insights into the kind of research they contribute to
Blog – The Academic Interview
Dr Anna Volkmer goes through her approach for preparing for the NIHR Advanced Fellowship Interview, and shares her experiece of the process.
Blog – Hospital in a Time of Covid (from my own experience)
Sam has previously shared his challenges of living with ulcerative pancolitis, this landed him in hospital & in this blog he shares experiences from his stay
Blog – Beating the Winter Blues
Hannah Hussain provides her top 5 tips for boosting your productivity, and help you to get on track and smash out those research goals in 2022.
ISTAART Blog – The Trials and Tribulations of Doing an Academic Postdoc Abroad
STAART PIA to Elevate Early Career Researchers Blog, Dr James Quinn reflects on his move from the UK to the USA and his time as a postdoc.
Blog – Don’t Say the ‘D’ Word
Much has been done to improve dementia awareness, but in this blog Nathan discusses the narrative, and asks if this has been improved or could it be misleading?
Blog – The Blood Brain Barrier
New blog from Dr Yvonne Couch discussing all things blood brain barrier, the history, how it works and why it is important for her research.
Blog – What neuropathology can tell us about the brain diseases which lead to dementia
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali describes what neuropathology can tell us about the brain diseases which lead to dementia, and what this means for dementia diagnosis in life
Blog – The highs and lows of scientific research
An insight into the highs and lows of scientific research – from Beth Eyre’s perspective as a third year PhD student in Neuroscience.
Blog – From the plant to the lab
Masha Burelo, PhD Student from University of Aberdeen first blog on the topic of cannabinoids and the science behind them… with more to come.
Blog – From costings to successfully managing a research budget
Essential reading for any ECRs writing their first grant application – because getting your costings right, and managing the budget are a key skill
Blog – Inflammation and the Brain, thinking outside the box
Dr Yvonne Couch comes at dementia from a different perspective, not the brain… but the rest of your body, and inflammation, and how to think differently.
Blog – The Imperfection in Reflection (A day in the life)
In this blog Nathan Stephens shares a day in his life, have a read and have a walk in his shoes as he reflects on his day, life and studies in a very unique way
Blog – Surviving a bad viva
In this blog Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali discusses what to expect from your viva and sharing experience of how she survived hers – with top tips for PhD Students.
Blog – Couplehood & co-remembering, the bond of a lifetime together
I, We, You, He, She, They, and It – small words that take on a whole new meaing when listening back to conversations between loved ones living with dementia.
Blog – 10 Christmas Gift Ideas for the Researcher in your Life
It’s Christmas – here are Hannah Hussain’s Top 10 festive gift recommendations for the academic or scientist in your life!
Blog – What is mixed-methods research and how do you go about it?
We often think about research methodology in two ways – qualitative or quantitative. But what if we use both? Dr Clarissa Giebel discusses mixed methods
Blog – Open access publishing & dissemination
Dr Anna Volkmer describes the trials & tribulations of going for gold, in other words getting and open access publication.
Blog – An introduction to Social Return on Investment
SROI is a mixed methods framework for measuring the social value of an intervention. Nathan Stephens talks us through the process
Blog – When to leave academia, and how to return if you change your mind
Traditional academic careers are no-longer the norm, you need to find your own path, which can include leaving and returning. Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali discusses
Blog – How to Develop Research Independence
Dr Sam Moxon considers how to breakfree of doing other peoples research, and progress to being a PI and following your own research path
Blog – Academic Life and the Problems of Perpetual Post-Docing
Dr Yvonne Couch, discusses some of the challenges faced by postdocs, problems you may face in a science career and how to avoid them
Blog – 3 Tips for a PhD interview
With many doctoral training programme deadlines approaching, this blog from Beth Eyre might just help you ace the interview.
Blog – Squid Game, Player 001, Dementia
Did you watch Squid Game? Warning this blog contains spoilers! Hannah Hussain explores the image of dementia portrayed on television.
Blog – Conversation analysis, tips & lessons learned
Felicity Slocombe shares the progress she is making in her research, and the lessons she has learned so far from analysing conversations.
Blog – Tips on Job Hunting after Grad School
In the last post from Morgan Daniel’s MSc journey blogs, she discusses job hunting, the challenges, ups and downs and a few things she learned along the way.
Blog – Another year, another Liverpool Dementia Conference!
Dr Clarissa Giebel reflects and updates on the recent Liverpool Dementia & Ageing Research Conference – catch-up now to learn about the work
Blog – Err On the Side of Patronising: Writing Tips
Dr Yvonne Couch provides a series of writing exercises, hints and tips for everyone starting out on their first paper, grant or project report.
Blog – How does the brain clean itself? And is this linked to Alzheimer’s?
Beth Eyre provides insights into the brains waste system – and how it may be important in Alzheimer’s disease. So, saddle up for some fascinating science!
Blog – Disrupting Dementia Research Careers
Today Adam Smith is speaking at the World Dementia Council global dialogue on ECRs. In this blog he talks about career challenges for dementia researchers
Blog – Intervention planning in dementia
If your research discovers something that could help people what happens to it? Anna explores the challenges of translating research into clinical services
Blog – Preparing for your PhD confirmation review
In this blog Hannah Hussain discusses how to prepare for the exam that comes at the end of the first year of your PhD, the dreaded confirmation review
Blog – Can we 3D print revolutionary research?
Dr Sam Moxon introduces us to 3D Bioprinting, and work to print human tissue-like structures in the lab. But could this revolutionise dementia research?
Blog – Social Value: a vehicle for social change
Nathan Stephens discusses the progressive shift towards more equitable health systems and why now is a good time for change.
Blog – Grant Rejections, the norm in academia
How to deal with grant application rejecttion, some funders proudly claim to fund 1 in 4 – but what if you’re in the other 75%? Clarissa discusses.
Blog – The Edge of Anxiety
Dr Yvonne Couch writes about the stressors, how they affect performance and how this fits into academic life, mental health & what we can do about it
Blog – Studying Memory using conversation analysis
Felicity Slocombe discusses her work on collective remembering or co-remembering and how it can be used in interactions with people living with dementia
Blog – Has a reliance on animal models delayed dementia research?
Why have preclinical studies using Alzheimer’s disease mouse models failed to translate into successful clinical trials? Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali explores
Blog – Dear Scientist… celebrating Ada Lovelace Day
It’s Ada Lovelace Day and to mark the occasion Dr Yvonne Couch writes of some of the women that have inspired her & what she hopes might change
Blog – The way we think about dementia has changed for the better
Dr Sam Moxon discusses how our approach to dementia has changed – pick an organ and you can probably find studies showing its potential roles in dementia.
Blog – 5 transferable skills you can gain from a PhD
Beth Eyre reflects on the skills she has gained through her PhD, and how they could be transferred into the job market (over and above awesome lab skills).
Adam Smith adds to the World Dementia Council Global Voices
Our Programme Director Adam Smith was asked to write a blog for the World Dementia Council, take look to see how he connected ECRs to Space X Inspiration 4.
Blog – Green & Gold: Issues with open access publishing
Publishing your research is great, but its even better if read. Dr Anna Volkmer discusses her current efforts to make a new publication open access.
Blog – Top 10 tips for new PhD students
Hannah Hussain is about to finish the 1st year of her PhD, in preparing for her confirmation meeting, she shares her top 10 tips for new PhD Students
Blog – Exploring the Meeting Centres Support Programme
In this blog Nathan Stephens discusses The Meeting Centre Support Programme, which also happens to be the focus of his PhD research.
World Alzheimer’s Day Special Research Update
For World Alzheimer’s Day we asked our bloggers to reflect on they thought had progressed in their research fields & what should be the focus next year
Blog – Dementia Reporting Season
Dr Clarissa Giebel discusses the latest report from the UK APPG and WHO, and reflects on what made the spotlight, and what didn’t.
Blog – Why does brain injury increase the risk of dementia?
Experiencing a traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the strongest modifiable risk factor for developing dementia. Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali introduces her research
Blog – What the ethics? Negotiating ethics submissions
Research ethics are the moral principles that govern how researchers should carry work. Felicity Slocombe has some advice for getting your ethics approved
Blog – What I wish I’d known before starting my PhD
Beth Eyre is about to start the 3rd year of her PhD, in this blog she shares some advice that she wishes she’d received when she was starting out.
Blog – How to engage participants remotely, lessons learnt during the pandemic
Jessica Rees shares tips for getting great engagement in online workshops – for people living with dementia, carers and researchers.
Blog – Eat your vegetables, trust Me… It’s Important!
Sam was diagnosed with Ulcerative pancolitis, he ask what could help… and was told “not much” so he did his own research, and found diet makes a difference.
Blog – Anxiety dreams & short terms contracts
Dr Anna Volkmer had a strange dream… one we fhope won’t come true. In this blog Anna share her tips for surviving the unstable & insecure life as an ECR
Blog – What does a health economist do?
Hannah Hussain provides an introduction to the principles of health economics – how to measure & deliver cost effective care & treatments.
Blog – Rebalancing Gender in Dementia Care
Nathan Stephens unpacks the complex topic that is males in care work, or more to the point the lack of them; and some key considerations in the area
Blog – Your Résumé Needs You!
With news that the UKRI is adopting the Royal Society Résumé for Researchers format. Dr Yvonne Couch endeavours to outline its purpose
Blog – Taking care of yourself during Grad School
As we almost reach the end of our year long journey with Morgan Daniel, she shares some tip tips for taking care of yourself during a Masters.
Blog – From aspiring psychologist to neuroscientist
We welcome Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali as our latest staff blogger, Kamar brings a wealth of experience, spanning NHS, Academia and a Research Funder.
Blog – Hybrid care, the future of dementia care?
Dr Clarissa Giebel discusses how dementia care is changing in the short and long-term as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Blog – If research is so unpredictable, why do it?
Dr Sam Moxon writes about motivation, what inspires people (and him) to pursue a career in science and research, and what it takes to keep going.
Blog – Is blood flow the missing link to helping understand Alzheimer’s?
In the first of our blood flow blogs, Beth Eyre discusses her own research and gives a whistle stop tour about the importance of blood flow.
Blog – Go with the flow
Blood enters the right atrium, flows through the tricuspid valve into the right ventricle & the heart beats. Dr Yvonne Couch discusses blood flow & dementia
Blog – My experience of online learning
When Morgan started her MSc, she had no idea how it would work (UCL probably didn’t either) in this blog she reflects on studying during the pandemic
Blog – AAIC 2021 Round-up
In a change to our usual AAIC review format, Adam Smith has narrated his blog sharing top stories from the week, discusses the platform and his own highlights.
Blog – My first in-person event, experiences & reflections
Catch-up with Felicity Slocombe, as she discusses what she discovered at her first face-to-face dementia conference & experiences of presenting her work
Blog – Future funding: Applying for an NIHR advanced fellowship
Dr Anna Volkmer discusses her career path & provides tips for Clinical Academics navigating the NIHR Academic Training Programme
Blog – Sharing my story, meet Hannah Hussain
Meet new blogger Hannah Hussain. In her 1st blog she shares her story of family influences, inspiration and a move from Pharmacy to Health Economics
Blog – ‘First Steps’, introducing Nathan Stephens
Meet new blogger Nathan Stephens. In his 1st blog Nathan shares his story from caring for loved ones with dementia to a PhD at Uni of Worcester
Blog – What do you want? How to write successful cold emails
At some point, there comes a time when every student or academic needs to email a strange Prof. This blog may help you get a reply
Blog – A balancing act
This blog from Dr Yvonne Couch is about work and life, and balance and how it might just come down to money and culture and you.
Blog – Social Care, why does it matter?
Dr Clarissa Giebel is passionate about social care. Read her latest blog to discover how and where social care comes into play, and how it needs to change.
Blog – Including the voices of people with dementia
Dr Anna Volkmer shares how she approaches PPI when those people have cognitive and communication difficulties – advice for 1st timers.
Blog – How to build resilience and bounce back
Had a grant or manuscript rejection? Ethics challenges or experiment that didn’t work? Adam Smith has tips to build your resilience & help you overcome hurdles
Blog – The Aduhelm Paradox
You may think Aducanumab is the miracle dementia drug we’ve been waiting for, so why do many researchers disagree? Dr Sam Moxon explores
Blog – How does a brain bank work?
Dr Christina Toomey has worked at the Queen Square Brain Bank for 10 years, in this post we hear about her work and how it helps researchers worldwide
Blog – The importance of taking a break
This month Beth takes a break from the lab, and discusses the importance of taking a break, and how it can actually help your work.
Blog – Introductions
Meet new blogger Felicity Slocombe, PhD Student from Loughborough University, researching interactions and identity in dementia.
Blog – The Hunt for Tiny Messengers
Extracellular Vesicles. Where do they come from, what do they do? Why are they interesting to Dementia Researchers? Dr Yvonne Couch explains.
Blog – MSc Dissertation
Morgan Daniel discusses her MSc dissertation, how to choose a project, supervision and tips getting through the writing (you may need them)
Blog – It is the season of research grant deadlines
Dr Clarissa Giebel shares tips on how to keep on top of things when you’re applying for multiple grants (could apply to jobs too)
Blog – How to Sell Your Conference Poster
With conference season upon us, Dr Sam Moxon shares his tips for creating a great conference poster, and getting people engaged (also in Portuguese)
Blog – Using research to deliver change
Dr Anna Volkmer writes about her work to influence commissioners to deliver what patients really want, effective research outcomes implemented.
Blog – Writing your first Journal Article
As Beth Eyre gets to work on her 1st lead author paper, she shares her experience so far, useful for anyone studying for a PhD that has this to look forward to
Blog – Respecting Your Betters
The best mentors listen closely, help you learn about yourself, and provide whatever you need. Dr Yvonne Couch discusses what good mentoring looks like
Blog – How to nail your CV
Dr Sam Moxon provides a comprehensive guide on creating a great CV, suitable for academia and industry – guaranteed to get you on the shortlist.
Blog – How using mixed methods changed my PhD
Bethany McLoughlin discusses learning a new research method, and how hearing from carers provided a new perspective and direction for her PhD.
Blog – Mental Health Awareness Week and Me
Mental Health Awareness Week, aims to reducing stigma, and raise awareness. Adam Smith wrote about his own experience and how it has affected him
Blog – What have I learned on my MSc so far?
Morgan Daniel reflects on what she has learned so far, as the ‘taught’ part of her MSc comes to an end, highlighting everything learned in a short time
Blog – A resource for translational stroke research
Dr Siobhan Crilly & James Cooper discuss their dataset of genes expressed in macrophages and neutrophils that have been isolated from a zebrafish
Blog – Research networking in a socially distanced age
Have you remained connected to your colleagues and the wider research community over the last year? Clarissa discusses she’s maintained collaborations
Blog – Managing Unpredictable Workloads
Do you have an unpredictable workload? Days when there aren’t enough hours in the day, and others where the kettle is always on… Dr Sam Moxon talks strategies
Blog – Stroke 101
Dr Yvonne Couch takes us on a journey into better understanding of ‘Stroke’. Find out about the disease, history and treatments + connection to dementia
Blog – Realist Methodology
‘Realist Methodology’ a theory-driven approach to developing and evaluating interventions, recognising that people, not interventions, create change.
Blog – Moving from supervisee to supervisor
Dr Anna Volkmer shares her top nine reasons for supervising students and shares her own experiences of transitioning from student to leader
Guest Blog – How I discovered that it’s never too late to become an ECR
Charly Harris is a Speech & Language Therapist. Charly shares her story and what has inspired her to come back to academia.
Blog – My experience of the ARUK 2021 conference
Two years into her PhD and Beth Eyre hasn’t had an opportunity to attend a face to face conference. Beth reflects on the virtual ARUK 2021
Blog – Where would we be without international research?
Last week we learned that the overseas aid budget holders had been asked to make savings. Dr Clarissa Giebel discusses how the affects ripple through the system
Blog – How not to win a Nobel Prize – do we need to reassess “success” in science?
What motivates you? Childhood ambition, making the world a better place? Professor Louise Serpell shares her own personal journey to becoming a scientist
Blog – How my relationship with University changed
Are you a perfectionist? In this blog Morgan Daniel shares her difficulties with ‘Perfectionism’ and how a break and new balance has actually improved her work.
Blog – Lead With a Success Story
r Yvonne Couch from University of Oxford. In her 1st blog we get to know a little more about her background, work and what she has planned for us in the future.
Blog – Using qualitative methods: A guide to thematic analysis
Dr Anna Volkmer has used both qualitative and quantitative research methods in her work, in this blog she discusses Thematic Analysis.
Blog – Neurovascular coupling in Alzheimer’s disease
Beth Eyre talks about her research into Neurovascular coupling and how this related to dementia, proving there is nothing basic about basic science
Blog – Tissue Stiffness, An Overlooked Aspect of Dementia?
When hear the word ‘dementia’ do you think of mechanics? No? Sam does, in this blog he talks about the importance of Tissue Stiffness and elastic maps.
Blog – You’re an expert, and your input matters
Adam Smith shares news on the All-Party Parliamentary Group on Dementia current inquiry and explains how and why you should share your thoughts into the process
Blog -Spinning Plates and Tomatoes
How to you practice self-care, a demanding workload and not become one of ‘those’ students? PhD Student Bethany McLoughlin may have the answer.
Blog – So Your Experiment Failed
“Science doesn’t always work. A lot of experiments are deemed a failure at the first attempt.” Dr Sam Moxon talks about how he manages when things don’t work.
Blog – From Nursing to Dementia Research
Dr Emily Oliver discusses her career from Nursing the Clinical Academic and back to Nursing, be inspired to consider your future in dementia research.
Blog – Finding Your Place in Dementia Research
When Sam was waiting to go into his interview he was thinking “I am not a neuroscientist, this could be a tricky one”, he quickly realised that what they actually wanted was a fresh approach. So don’t be deterred from applying for that job or course, you might be just what they’re looking for.
Blog – “A Product of Failure” – How I fell into dementia research
Nadine Mirza from University of Manchester shares the story of her career, highlighting the importance of perseverance and how a passion for the subject can mean the difference between success and failure.
Blog – Is a masters the right choice?
If you’re just graduating or thinking of re-entering education, or looking to study to improve your skills for your job a Masters could be a good choice, but there are other options. Morgan Daniel discusses MSc programmes and if they might be right for you.
Blog – Studying whilst working in dementia research – it’s possible!
Dr Clarissa Giebel discusses her career path, exploring the twists and turns and discussing how it is possible to work and study, in fact… it may actually help your research career.
Blog – My path into dementia research, and what I have learnt
Dr Ashvini Keshavan is a Post-doctoral clinical research associate, hear what inspired her to follow a career into medicine & passion for dementia research
Blog – Why should you become a lab-based dementia researcher?
It can sometimes feel like you take 2 steps forward & 1 step back during your #PhD, but as long as you’re moving forward, you’re doing well! In her first blog for 2021 Beth Eyre shares tips for looking after your wellbeing in a pandemic.
Blog – Academia vs medicine: Why academia was right for me
Christina always wanted to be a doctor, but had no idea when she got her A-level results that this would come through a career in scientific research and not in medicine. Could this also be the right alternative for you?
Blog – Dementia care over the last 25 years
Making best use of the available dementia research funding. Dr Anna Volkmer takes us through a few of the discoveries research has found in the past 25 years.
Blog – Why I became involved in dementia research
Dr Clarissa Giebel makes a case for why you should follow in her and others footsteps and become a Dementia Researcher. Discussing her own passion and what motivates her to continue.
Blog – Inspiring the next generation of dementia researchers
In her first blog for Dementia Researcher, Dr Christina Toomey from UCL shares her passion for her work and efforts to inspire the next generation of dementia researchers, she hopes you will join her in the effort.
Blog – Tips and tricks for effective studying
Morgan Daniel shares information on her study routine, sharing advice she received from lecturers. Discover how the pomodoro technique works for her.
Blog – Conducting Interviews Online During COVID-19
Bethany McLoughlin has adapted her research becauses of the pandemic. In this blog she discusses a new opportunity, and tips for conducting online interviews.
Blog – Keeping Sane in Lockdown
We all know what we ‘should’ do to survive lockdown… but are you really doing those things? Dr Sam Moxon discusses what he is doing to stay happy, healthy, positive and productive during these difficult days. Read or Listen.
Blog – My initial PhD plans
In her first blog for Dementia Researcher Thaïs Caprioli from University of Liverpool introduces herself and tell us about her research plans. Read or listen to Thaïs narrating.
Blog – What should I research and how do I formulate the question?
Sometimes your research is decided for you, and sometimes you get to choose for yourself, but how do you decide and what might influence that? Dr Emily Oliver explores the topic, and has some advice for the undecided.
Blog – Homesickness
70% of students who leave home for the first time experience homesickness. Morgan Daniel discusses this topic and strategies that help
Blog – International research during the pandemic
International research collaborations can help bring a new perspective to your work, and ensure the findings or intervention can be used elsewhere. Dr Clarissa Giebel discusses how her research is going global in her latest blog – read or listen.
Blog – A PhD during COVID-19
We last hear from James Watson back in June 2020, when he updated us on his progress in undertaking a systematic review. James is now in the second year of his PhD, and in his latest blog he updates us on the research he has been doing, how this changed as a result of the pandemic, and how the next phase is more important than ever.
Blog – Implementing Dementia Research Findings
What drives you and gives you the passion continue? Dr Anna Volkmer discusses her own work, and how she finds the implementation of discovery exciting
Blog – How the COVID-19 lockdown impacted people with dementia and their carers
Dr Prerana Sabnis discusses some of the latest research led by Dr Aida Suárez-González on the impact of COVID-19 on people with rare forms of dementia
Blog – Looking after your wellbeing as a PhD student
It can sometimes feel like you take 2 steps forward & 1 step back during your #PhD, but as long as you’re moving forward, you’re doing well! In her first blog for 2021 Beth Eyre shares tips for looking after your wellbeing in a pandemic.
Blog – Relational counselling as a psychosocial intervention for dementia
Dr Alys Griffiths discusses the findings of her recent paper published in the Journal of Dementia – ‘Relational counselling as a psychosocial intervention for dementia: Qualitative evidence from people living with dementia and family members’. (Also published in the Welsh Language)
Blog – Finding the right experience
Thinking about the next steps in her MSc, Morgan Daniel discusses the challenge of finding some work experience, and shares her tips for others doing the same.
Blog – New year, new goals
Dr Emily Oliver, discusses her goals for 2021, with advise on how you can also make your own goals SMART.
Blog – Interviewing people with dementia and carers remotely
Dr Sarah Griffiths and Dr Hannah Wheat reflect on the challenges that remote interviewing of study participants brought for the Dementia-Person Aligned Care Team (D-PACT) project, and practices that addressed them.
Blog – Science Operates on Evidence, not Proof
New blog by Dr Sam Moxon, discussing evidence versus proof. Arguing that proof restricts the scientific endeavour because if we can prove everything, we may as well stop looking. Then who knows what we will miss?
Blog – How has 2020 changed dementia research and the research work-life balance?
Dr Clarissa Giebel reflects on how 2020 changed everyone’s lives, and research and looks forward to how this will keep going in 2021.
Blog – Writing a systematic review when developing a novel intervention for dementia
Dr Anna Volkmer discusses her experience of undertaking a systematic review. Great for anyone attempting this themselves for the first time.
Blog – Month Two of My PhD Journey
In her last blog of 2020, Bethany McLoughlin looks back on the first 2 months of her PhD (or is that 2 years?!) time seems to be distorting in these strange times – and she really is close to finishing that journal manuscript, honest!
Blog – Imposter Syndrome
Morgan Daniel discusses the difficult topic of Imposter Syndrome, how it affects her, and how she is working to overcome her perfectionism.
Blog – Planning and hosting a virtual conference
Dr Clarissa Giebel shares her top tips for setting up and hosting a virtual conference, and discusses her own work in organising the Liverpool Dementia and Ageing Research Forum.
Blog – Beth Eyre introductions and discovering science
In her first blog for Dementia Researcher, Beth Eyre introduces herself and brings us up to date on the last 10 years, what brought her to science, and where we now find her as a 2nd year PhD Student at The University of Sheffield researching Neurovascular and cognitive function in preclinical models of AD.
Blog – Clinical Academic Roles in nursing, do they exist?
Dr Emily Oliver. looks back on what she has been doing since completing her Clinical Academic Doctoral Programme 12 months ago, and what opportunities exist after you finish.
Blog – Job Hunting in a Pandemic
Dr Sam Moxon from The University of Manchester has joined our regular bloggers. Sam is a postdoctoral researcher specialising in 3D bioprinting to engineer better models of the human brain. In his first blog he talks about the challenges of job searching during the pandemic.
Blog – A little bit of Conversation Analysis
Dr Anna Volkmer talks to the value of conversation analysis, as a tool for life, not just for dementia – read or hear Anna read her own words.
Blog – Lab Reasearchers guide to PPI
Dr Katy Stubbs highlights how and why Lab-based researchers and can engage the public in their work, and how both will benefit.
Blog – A few thoughts on peer review
Today, Morgan Daniel takes (or took, depending on when you’re reading this) over the Dementia Researcher Twitter account. Sharing her day to inspire others thinking of following this path, and taking your questions. Could that also be the right path for you?
Blog – Introducing Beth McLoughlin (that’s me) and my research
We are delighted to welcome Beth McLoughlin a first year PhD Student from University of Warwick, to our line-up of regular bloggers. In her first post for Dementia Researcher, Beth introduced herself and her research.
Blog – Dr Ellen Dicks, reflecting on year one as a RAD Fellow
In the last of our five -part blog series – Dr Ellen Dicks shares her research story, taking her from Germany, to Amsterdam and across the USA.
Blog – Dr Claire Durrant, reflecting on year one as a RAD Fellow
In the fourth of our five -part blog series – Dr Claire Durrant from the University of Edinburgh discusses her Fellowship and the first time she met the motor racing legend Sir Jackie Stewart
Blog – Dr Christy Hung, reflecting on year one as a RAD Fellow
Dr Christy Hung discusses her work sharing what you could expect if you apply for the RAD Fellowship with Alzheimer’s Research UK
Blog – Dr Cara Croft, reflecting on year one as a RAD Fellow
In the second of a five -part blog series – Dr Cara Croft discusses her work and how this Fellowship has provided fantastic flexibility to allow her to take her research to the USA, whilst remaining part of a team in the UK.
Blog – What’s different about a Race Against Dementia Fellowship?
In the first of a five -part blog series – Dr Penny Moyle, Race Against Dementia CEO, discusses their Fellowship programme and just what makes it different to other Fellowships (You can apply for this Fellowship now)
Blog – My Masters Degree So Far
Regular contributor Morgan Daniel shares the latest update discussing life on campus, and sharing how the new system of remote and face-to-face teaching, may just be the perfect combination – preparing for the first set of exams.
Blog – Ethics Committee, an insight into the other side
Dr Emily Oliver shares her first experience as a member of an ethics panel, with top tips and advice from the other side of the process.
Blog – Taking research out of its bubble
Dr Clarissa Giebel discusses her research into social care during the pandemic, providing a reminder that social support services are key.
Blog – The measure of COVID-19 on loneliness in dementia
Dr Anna Volkmer questions the value of the rating scales we use in research to assess loneliness, and Speech and Language Therapy interventions.
Blog – Should I (meaning you) do a Masters?
Today, Morgan Daniel takes (or took, depending on when you’re reading this) over the Dementia Researcher Twitter account. Sharing her day to inspire others thinking of following this path, and taking your questions. Could that also be the right path for you?
Blog – Using routine data for dementia research
Dr Clarissa Giebel discusses her research into social care during the pandemic, providing a reminder that social support services are key, and they themselves need further support.
Blog – London Calling
Morgan Daniel shares the latest update in her year long story, sharing news from life, work and studies during her MSc at University Collect London.
Blog – Introducing a regular series from Dr Emily Oliver
Dr Emily Oliver. completed her clinical doctorate in dementia, and is now a Consultant Admiral Nurse. Emily will be blogging for us every month, sharing updates about dementia and dementia care, whilst providing snippets into her own personal and professional life.
Blog – Talking about diversity in dementia research
Dr Anna Volkmer discusses the lack of diversity within her research and clinical communities, and how this is detrimental to patients.
Blog – World Alzheimer’s Day Challenge
Professor Martin Rossor, highlights the importance of building research capacity and inspiring the next generation of researchers on World Alzheimer’s Day
Blog – World Alzheimer’s Day message for Dementia Researchers
Adam Smith blogs to share news from Alzheimer’s Disease International, and to thank researchers for all they do on World Alzheimer’s Day.
Blog – Sharing my MSc Journey
Morgan Daniel in the first of her monthly blogs for Dementia Researcher, sharing her MSc journey.
Blog – Waving the flag for better social care in dementia
Dr Clarissa Giebel discusses her research into social care during the pandemic, providing a reminder that social support services are key, and they themselves need further support.
Blog – Brexit: a noose slowly strangling academic research in the UK?
New blog from Michelle Naessens reflecting on her personal experience of how leaving the European Union is affecting her as a Dutch national, living and studying in the UK.
Blog – Applying for a NIHR Development Skills Enhancement Award
Dr Anna Volkmer blogs about her experience of completing her PhD, and how she worked to ensure she didn’t ‘fall off the edge’.
Blog – Anti-Racism in STEM
Maya Gosztyla is working to facilitate more productive conversations (and in turn, tangible systemic changes) toward addressing racial discrimination in STEM
Blog – The research insider debate in qualitative research
Dr Emily Oliver explores the advantages and disadvantages of being an insider researcher, exploring issues of being inside looking out or outside looking in.
Blog – Doing a virtual viva and completing PhD amendments
Anna Volkmer (now Dr Volkmer) shares the story behind her on / off viva, and working on amendments, parenting and work during lockdown.
Blog – PhD applications: what I learned through success and rejections
New blog from Siliva Anderle sharing what she learned during her my PhD application journey. Great advise for anyone thinking of starting a PhD.
Blog – Hit the ground running: starting your Dementia MSc
Michelle Naessens shares advise for future MSc students, learn from decisions she made and what she would do differently given the chance all over again
Blog – Researching Dental Care in Dementia
Andrew Geddis-Regan writes about his NIHR Doctoral Research Fellowship work to improve decision making and dental care for people living with dementia.
Blog – Anxiety Vs. The Internet: How Social Media Gets Mental Health Wrong
Sarah reflects on how Mental Health advice on Twitter often contradicts her own experiences, and shares some things that do and don’t work for her.
Blog – Looking into inequalities in dementia care pathways
James Watson is investigating the socio-economic and geographic variation in care pathways and the resulting health and economic outcomes for older populations.
Blog – Ways to avoid rubbish video calls
Adam Smith has turned to blog writing to try to share some good general rules for video calls, he assures us this wasn’t aimed at anyone specific.
Blog – Covid & dementia, impacts from research to care
Clarissa Giebel shares details of how her covid-19 dementia research studies have been conceived, funded, approved and started recruiting in under two weeks.,
Blog – Preparing for a virtual viva
At this slightly strange time, Anna Volkmer shares (from experience) her top tips for preparing for the virtual viva, as she prepares for her own this week.
Blog – Tech Support for People Living with Dementia
Joanna Sun discusses her work exploring if care homes fulfil the needs of people living with dementia, families and staff & how tech is being utilised.
Blog – Stress and Alzheimer’s disease- what do we know so far?
Clarissa Giebel updates on her recent trip to Maastricht for her Alzheimer’s Society funded project, and discusses differences in study recruitment.
Blog – Dementia researcher’s mental health and productivity in Covid-19 times
Dr Aida Suarez-Gonzalez talks about her experiences of staying home for 16 days, with tips to stay physically and mentally healthy.
Blog – Liverpool Dementia going Dutch
Clarissa Giebel updates on her recent trip to Maastricht for her Alzheimer’s Society funded project, and discusses differences in study recruitment.
Blog – Why are we excluding the best brains from dementia research?
Is to possible to have security and stability while also pursuing a career as a researcher? Anna Volkmer discusses research culture, and what needs to change.
Blog – Teaching while going after the sword (PhD) in the stone
Ester Bellavia shares some of her reflections on the learning experiences of her second year of PhD and her imminent annual progress review.
Blog – Reflecting on the first UK Dementia Care Research Summit
Adam Smith discusses what he learned from the recent UK Dementia Care Research Summit, and his top 10 take-aways that could improve dementia care research.
Blog – Accessing routine data for dementia across the globe
Clarissa shares her exploration of dementia cohort datasets, and discusses how they are supporting her latest research.
Blog – Tips from inside the ARUK grant review board
Dr Fiona McLean from the University of Dundee recently attended an Alzheimer’s Research UK grant review board. In this blog Fiona shares some useful advise that might help your next grant application.
Blog – Tips & hints on surviving life post-thesis, pre-viva.
Do you get a sense of loss after hitting those major milestones? In this Blog Anna Volkmer reflects on dealing with the pre-viva lull.
Blog – Talking tales: from reading at my desk to navigating the Research Involvement Ocean
Ester Bellavia takes a break from the extensive literature on PPI and challenges herself for a journey across the Research Involvement Ocean! With a fresh approach and a gaining a deeper sense of its benefits.
Blog – Cognitive Impairment at the foot of Kilimanjaro
Dr Iago Rego García recently spent time at Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre in Moshi, Tanzania. While there he interviewed Dr Judith Boshe for the Spanish teaching website “Circunvalación del Hipocampo”. Exploring dementia diagnosis in the foothills of Kilimanjaro.
Blog – One small DPUK grant can kick-start a big career
Luke Whiley tells the story of how a relatively small grant has taken him far in his career in dementia research – to the other side of the world in fact!
Blog – Things I learned while writing my first publication
Katrina Deane shares some things she learned while writing her first publication, and recommending the mantra ‘Flexibility is a Sign of Greatness’.
Blog – Cognitive Accessibility, person-centred care and gaining consent in dementia research
Dr Aida Suarez-Gonzalez gives a personal account of her experiences in taking research participant consent, how this has changed overtime.
Blog – Getting consent right!
There are many things that researchers can do to maximise the person’s ability to participate in decision making. Here are some top tips from Anna Volkmer
Guest Blog – Goodbye 2019, hello new decade and more dementia research!
Clarissa reflects on 2019, and looks forward to a new year and some of the big tasks ahead for her research – and the stress of delivering on a successful grant application.
Guest Blog – Getting ready for my 2020 PhD roller coaster ride
Ester Bellavia reflects on her year as a PhD student in 2019 and looks forward to her goals for 2020
Blog – How do you report your PPI in dementia research? Meet GRIPP2
Research is significantly enhanced and enriched using a public participatory approach. Dr Aida Suarez-Gonzalez discusses how to report PPI
Blog – A curious, innovative, empowering drive to DEEP change
Ester Bellavia discussed her recent engagement with people from the Dementia Engagement and Empowerment Project (DEEP for short). Exploring the barriers faced by people living with dementia when involved in research.
Blog – Preventative Neurology Unit Symposium, Queen Mary University of London
Phazha Bothongo attended the Preventative Neurology Unit Symposium, Queen Mary University of London a couple of weeks ago. In this blog she shares a few highlights from a great programme of world class speakers.
Blog – Setting up a dementia and ageing network
Blog from Clarissa Giebel, discussing her work on creating a new local collaborative researcher and public community and going from not knowing many people to creating a buzzing network.
Blog – Creating Zines for the Neighbourhoods: Our People, Our Places Study
Domenique Brouwers is a freelance graphic designer. In this blog he discusses his work, co-producing zines, for the Neighbourhoods: Our People, Our Places dementia study. Helping translate study findings into something that helps raise awareness of the challenges of living with dementia.
Blog – Researchers & Dementia Advocate Groups: What do we owe to each other?
Ester Bellavia “I believe researchers and dementia advocates groups should collaborate not only in the interest of research itself but more importantly, in the interest of our cherished future research community.”
Blog – PhD to Postdoc transition
Dr Katie Askew discussed her experience of not only transitioning from PhD to Postdoc, but also a new labs and new city. With tips and advice based on her own experiences, and highlighting the importance of self-care.
Blog – Cultivating a research culture in the NHS
Can the research culture inside the NHS be improved? What role can non clinicians play? Blog from Anna Vollkmer discussing research culture inside the NHS
Blog – Catch-up on the 29th Alzheimer’s Europe Conference
Ester Bellavia a PhD student from Newcastle recently attended the Alzheimer’s Europe Conference in the Hague. In this blog for the Dementia Researcher website, Ester shares her experiences of the conference, and what she is taking away.
Blog – Managing Anxiety (For Stress Awareness Week)
In this special blog for stress awareness week, Amy Kizildagli discusses anxiety (something most researcher experience) what that can feel like, and some ways to help tackle the causes and symptoms.
Blog – Slicing up your thesis for publication
How do you convert your 75,000 word PhD thesis into publications? Dr Kellyn Lee from the University of Southampton shares her advice and experiences, after tackling the same challenge in this great guest blog.
Blog – You’ve passed your PhD, now what?
Guest blog from Dr Emily Oliver who recently completed her NIHR Clinical Academic Doctorate at the University of Southampton. Discussing her thoughts on how handle completion and what comes next.
Blog – My PhD plans and improving care
First blog from James Watson sharing his plans and ideas as he embarks on his 1st year of a PhD at the University of Liverpool, researching variations in dementia care pathways and the health and economic impact.
Blog – Knowledge Exchange between Liverpool and Maastricht
Blog from Clarissa Giebel, sharing news from her recent visit exchange visit to Maastricht University to catch up on recruitment, and all things study-related.
Blog – Meeting of minds: Qualitative Research in Dementia
Anna Volkmer – sharing further info from last weeks 1st meeting of a group of researchers all interested in using qualitative research methods with people with communication difficulties and dementia.
Blog – Preparing for your Viva Voce Examination
New blog from Naomi Gallant – having just gone through the Viva, Naomi shares some snippets from her own experience which we hope may help you along the way. Adding to this weeks Viva theme.
Blog – Singing and dancing with people with dementia
Blog from Clarissa Giebel, discussing new dementia care services and how researchers can support service evaluation, and don’t always have to lead the development of interventions.
Blog – Alzheimer’s Research UK Scotland Network: Growing Dementia Research in Glasgow
New blog from Dr Fiona Kerr, and Dr Lorraine Work sharing news from the recent ARUK Scotland network meeting.
Blog – Consenting study participants in dementia research
New blog from Anna Volkmer – tips and hints and guidance (and how to use them) for anyone attempting to produce an information or consent form for their study.
Blog – ARUK North-West Network ECR Day
New blog from Jo Sharpe – sharing news from the recent Alzheimer’s Research UK Network day in Manchester.
Blog – The Reading University ARUK Dementia Research Day 2019
New blog from Anne-Marie Greenaway – sharing her key take-aways from the recent Alzheimer’s Research UK Network day in Reading.
Blog – International collaboration: Managing primary progressive aphasia
New blog from Anna Volkmer – An international collaboration: Spreading the word on speech and language therapy approaches to managing primary progressive aphasia.
Blog – Health inequalities in dementia care – Knowledge Exchange
Blog from Dr Clarissa Giebel, sharing feedback from a recent knowledge exchange trip between Maastricht & Liverpool addressing health inequalities in dementia care
Blog – Co-Production Week #CoProWeek
Blog by Ester Bellavia, PhD student from Newcastle, discussing #CoProWeek and how share uses co-production in her own research.
Blog – Qualitative research methods in dementia: how does conversation analysis help?
Monthly blog from Anna Volkmer, from University College London, discussing her research, work and getting through her PhD.
Blog – Don’t just see, observe.
Dr Josie Fullerton shares her insights from behind the scenes of the ARUK grant review board, with helpful tips for writing your next grant application.
Blog – Thoughts on the The Australian Dementia Forum (ADF)
Blog from first time contributor Katherine Lawler, Lecturer in Dementia Studies at the Wicking Dementia Research and Education Centre, University of Tasmania, Australia. Sharing her thoughts and news from the recent annual Australian Dementia Forum (ADF) meeting.
Blog – Shaping young onset dementia support by involving the public
Blog from Dr Clarissa Giebel, discussing her work at the NIHR CLAHRC in the North West, engaging people with Young-onset Dementia and sharing the outputs of earlier research.
Blog – Preparing for conference attendance – right from the start of a project!
Blog from Anna Volkmer, from University College London, discussing her conference and talk preparations.
Blog – Scientist Media Training
Dr Aida Suarez-Gonzalez shares her experience and tips from her recent ESRC funded media training with Inside Edge Media.
Blog – PhD Student Reflections on the Alzheimer’s Society Annual Conference 2019
Blog from Katie Gambier-Ross reflecting on last weeks Alzheimer’s Society Conference at the Kia Oval in London.
Blog – Interviewing people with dementia
Blog by Sarah Griffiths discussing her experience of qualitative research interviews with people living with dementia. Sharing advise and tips for others who may need to do the same.
Blog – Mental capacity & consent in dementia research
Blog by Victoria Shepherd from Cardiff University discussing dementia research and the exclusion of people with cognitive impairment
Blog – My experiences of applying for my fellowship.
Anna Volkmer, discussing her experience of successfully applying for a fellowship from the NIHR – sharing tips that could help you get NIHR Funding
Guest Blog – Retaining research study participants
New Blog from Anna Volkmer, talking about her experience of finding and retaining dementia research study participants.
Blog – People with dementia are still able to engage in daily tasks – so let’s stop doing everything for them
Blog from Dr Clarissa Giebel, exploring the fine balance between caring, helping, empowering and disempowering people with living with dementia.
Blog – Dissemination: Building up to a podcast
Anna Volkmer, talks about her experience of podcasting with Dementia Researcher. How could podcasting help you reach more people?
Blog – Early career reflections on writing grant applications
New Blog from Dr Holly Walton, sharing tips from what she leaned from the UCL ThinkWrite grant writing workshop for Early Career Researchers.
Blog – National Dementia Strategies across Europe – who has one?
Blog from Dr Clarissa Giebel, what can countries learn from each other? Discussing National Dementia Strategies from across Europe
Blog – Why to say YES to podcasts
New Blog from Yvette Vermeer, talking about her experience of podcasting with the NIHR Dementia Researcher website. Would you like to talk about your work?
Blog – The Thesis: Sitting on the edge of the precipice looking into the abyss
New Blog from Anna Volkmer, sharing a few tips and hints that seemed small but have really helped her on route through her PhD.
Blog – Social activities are key to a good quality of life
Blog from Dr Clarissa Giebel, discussing Social Prescribing – It’s not only tablets that can make you feel better
Blog – Presenting to clinicians versus academics
New Blog from Anna Volkmer, discusses how her presentation style has developed, and provides her tips and advice for impactful presentations
Blog – When will we know more about dementia?
New Blog from Anna Volkmer, Reflecting on what we do and don’t know as we start 2019, and what more can and should be done.
Blog – ICFTD 2018 in Sydney
New Blog from Anna Volkmer, Cutting to the good stuff – 10 great things about this years ICFTD Conference from Sydney, Australia
Blog – Leaping Across the Pond
Guest Blog from Dr Robert Andrew, Post-doctoral Researcher at The University of Chicago – sharing his story of how he went from UK to the USA, with advise for others who may want to follow.
Blog – Alzheimer Europe 2018 – a conference for all
Dr Timothy Rittman shares news from the Alzheimer’s Europe Conference in Barcelona
Blog – Co-producing young onset dementia research together
Blog from Dr Clarissa Giebel, discussing her patient and public involvement in reviewing YOD memory clinic services
Blog – Posterior Cortical Atrophy Public Engagement
Blog from Dr Aida Suarez-Gonzalez discussing her patient and public involvement with people living with Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA)
Blog – Doing PPI on my PhD project
PPI with people with language led dementia: the barriers & the facilitators
Blog – Inside the DClinPsy: Snippets From An Assistant Psychologist’s Group
New blog contributor Nadine Mirza with advice for new psychologists
Blog – My experience of being a nice committee member
Dr Anna Volkmer shares her experience working with NICE to develop new guidelines on decision making and mental capacity.
Blog – The Start of PhD Year Two
Blog from Katie Gambier-Ross reflecting on the last few months and life as she embarks on her 2nd year Dementia PhD candidate at the University of Edinburgh
Blog – Let’s not forget care over cure
Blog from Dr Clarissa Giebel, discussing her work and the importance of dementia care research and helping people with dementia to remain independent for longer
Blog – Support for people with language led dementia
Blog from Anna Volkmer, sharing exciting news on her work and publication on support for people with language led dementia
Blog – UCL ARUK Network Scientific Meeting
Did you miss the Alzheimer’s Research UK North-West Network early-careers research event? No worries, we have you covered.
Blog – Pencils at the ready: exploring the arts and health archives at the Wellcome Library
Blog from Siobhan O’Connor exploring co-designing technology with people with dementia
Blog – Feel the Fear…
Dr Deborah Morgan blogs about her experience of being invited to present a TED talk on her research into loneliness.
Blog – Life in the Doldrums (getting the wind back in your sails).
Allyson Rogers writes about how she found her research stagnating in the doldrums and how she got the wind back into her sails.
Blog – Things I wish I had known before I became a clinician and an academic
Blog from Anna Volkmer, sharing her experiences with the benefit of hindsight and sharing tips for early career researchers
Blog – Working and studying in the UK as a clinical academic
Sharing experiences of one person who made the leap to working and studying the UK – Could the UK be your next move?
Blog – Creating a Dementia Friendly Society – Get them young
In this blog Dr Nicolas Farina explores what it means to be ‘dementia’ friendly, and looks to the future and a dementia friendly society
Blog – Using co-design methods to co-create technology with people with dementia and their carers
Over the last few years there has been an explosion of technology in healthcare. Ever since personal computing evolved in the 1980’s, followed by the Internet (or World Wide Web),…
Blog – Inside the ARUK grant review board
Three guest blogs from Early Career Researchers, on their visit as an observer at the recent ARUK Grant Review Board
Blog – Four takes on observing the ARUK grant review board – Take Four by Dr Nazira Albargothy
This is the third of three guest blogs from Early Career Researchers who observed the recent ARUK Grant Review Board
Blog – Four takes on observing the ARUK grant review board – Take Three by Dr Barbara Kramarz
This is the third of three guest blogs from Early Career Researchers who observed the recent ARUK Grant Review Board
Blog – Four takes on observing the ARUK grant review board – Take Two by Dr Hannah Scott
This is the second of three guest blogs from Early Career Researchers who observed the recent ARUK Grant Review Board
Blog – Four takes on observing the ARUK grant review board – Take One by Dr Kira Shaw
This is the first of three guest blogs from Early Career Researchers who observed the recent ARUK Grant Review Board
Blog – Manchester and North West Network Early-Career Researcher Conference
Did you miss the Alzheimer’s Research UK North-West Network early-careers research event? No worries, we have you covered.
Blog – Doing it for the girls: juggling academic and family life
Blog from Dr Anna Volkmer, exploring life as a researcher and mother and how to balance the two sides of life in academia
Blog – Forging New Frontiers in Dementia Research
A blog from Naomi Gallant an Occupational Therapist with Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, living in Bournemouth and currently undertaking a Clinical Academic PhD in Dementia Care at the University of Southampton.
Blog – Public Engagement and Academia – Some Things to Consider
Blog by Dr Stephen Gordon* *completed PhD in 2013 and now words as an Adviser at the University of Manchester.
Blog – Why Every Researcher Should Have a Science Blog
Blog by Maya Gosztyla discussing the rising demand for scientists to step up and take the lead on communicating their own research to the public.
Blog – Better Conversations for people with Primary Progressive Aphasia
Anna Volkmer is a NIHR Doctoral Fellow at University College London, in her blog she discusses her work to develop a new speech and language therapy intervention for people with language led dementia.
Blog – Caring for people who have dementia in Community Hospitals
Paul Brownbill, is from the University of South Wales, in his blog he talks about ‘Quality of Life and the Role of Communal Space in Sheltered Housing’