Dementia Researcher Blogs

Dementia Researcher

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The Dementia Researcher Blogs Podcasts - through this show, you can hear our bloggers read their blogs. So if you prefer to read, you can head or our website or you can listen on the move. These shows are about academic / research careers, research, science and life as an early career dementia researchers. Brought to you by https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk - everything you need, all in one place. Remember to subscribe to our main ‘Dementia Researcher‘ Podcast, here and where ever you get your podcasts.

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Top 10 Dementia Researcher Blogs Episodes

Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Dementia Researcher Blogs episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Dementia Researcher Blogs for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Dementia Researcher Blogs episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

Dr Sam Moxon - 2023: A Landmark Year for Public Understanding of Dementia?

Dementia Researcher Blogs

01/18/24 • 5 min

Dr Sam Moxon, narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.

2023 marks a pivotal year in the evolution of public understanding of dementia. In this blog Sam explores some of the key news that sits at the heart of this transformation. Sam discusses the breakthroughs and challenges faced in dementia research, emphasising the importance of community awareness and scientific advances. He sheds light on the strides made with drug treatments, and finishes on what comes next.

Find the original text, and narration here on our website.

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-2023-a-landmark-year-for-public-understanding-of-dementia/

Dr Sam Moxon is a biomaterials Research Fellow at University of Birmingham. His expertise falls on the interface between biology and engineering. His PhD focussed on regenerative medicine and he now works on trying to develop 3D bioprinting techniques with human stem cells, so that we better understand and treat degenerative diseases. Outside of the lab he hikes through the Lake District and is an expert on all things Disney.

Enjoy listening and reading our blogs? We're always on the look out for new contributors, drop us a line and share your own research and careers advice [email protected]

This podcast is brought to you in association with the NIHR, Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.

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Emily Spencer - ‘Winding down’ Preparing for maternity leave

Dementia Researcher Blogs

02/15/24 • 5 min

Emily Spencer, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.

In this blog Emily focuses on her experiences navigating pregnancy while working in dementia research and preparing for maternity leave. Thankfully an 'easy pregnancy' (if there is such a thing), allowed Emily to continue her professional commitments, including presenting at a conference at 35 weeks pregnant. Emily faced added pressure to complete her PhD upgrade and a significant part of a feasibility study before her leave. She attempted to finalise as many tasks as possible, including submitting papers for publication, but acknowledged some work, like her systematic review, would wait until her return. Emily's story highlights the challenges and pressures of managing academia and impending maternity leave.

Find the original text, and narration here on our website.

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-winding-down-preparing-for-maternity-leave/

#DementiaResearch #AcademicMother #Academia #MaternityLeave #Research

Emily Spencer is a PhD Student at University College London looking at improving how GPs communicate with people with dementia and their family carers about their future care. Emily previous had a 5 year career break to pursue a career as a musician, and has previously undertaken research on improving the care people with dementia receive from their GP practice, as well as end-of-life and palliative care provision in the community. Emily is also a new mum and will be writing about her experiences navigating motherhood and a research career.

Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.

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Emily Spencer - Who am I? Navigating identity as a parent

Dementia Researcher Blogs

01/04/24 • 6 min

Emily Spencer, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.

Join Emily, a PhD student and new mother, in her compelling blog. In this insightful piece, she shares her unique experience of balancing doctoral research in dementia with the joys and challenges of motherhood. Emily candidly addresses the complexities of gendered expectations and the evolution of her identity, offering a fresh perspective on managing personal and professional roles. Her honest narrative is not just inspiring but also a must-read for anyone striving to harmonise their career and family life.

Find the original text, and narration here on our website.

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-who-am-i-navigating-identity-as-a-parent/

Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.

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Ajantha Abey - Mastering the PhD Journey: Key Application Insights

Dementia Researcher Blogs

01/16/24 • 15 min

Ajantha Abey narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.

Embarking on a PhD is a monumental journey, not only in its execution but also in its initiation. Ajantha's blog is a treasure trove of insights and guidance, illuminating the path to a successful PhD journey. Drawing from personal experiences and an insider's view from the graduate studies committee at Oxford, Ajantha unravels the complexities of the PhD application process, offering invaluable advice to aspiring students. Whether it's understanding the importance of self-awareness, gaining relevant experience, or the nuances of choosing the right research question, this article is an indispensable guide.

It's not just about filling out an application form; it's about a profound journey of self-discovery and meticulous preparation, essential for anyone considering this significant academic pursuit. Prepare to be enlightened and equipped with the wisdom to navigate the intricate PhD application process.

Find the original text, and narration here on our website.

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-mastering-the-phd-journey-key-application-insights/

Ajantha Abey is a PhD student in the Kavli Institute at University of Oxford. He is interested in the cellular mechanisms of Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and other diseases of the ageing brain. Previously, having previoulsy explored neuropathology in dogs with dementia and potential stem cell replacement therapies. He now uses induced pluripotent stem cell derived neurons to try and model selective neuronal vulnerability: the phenomenon where some cells die but others remain resilient to neurodegenerative diseases.

Enjoy listening and reading our blogs? We're always on the look out for new contributors, drop us a line and share your own research and careers advice [email protected]

This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.

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Dr Beth Eyre - Subjective Cognitive Decline PIA Year in Review Recap

Dementia Researcher Blogs

02/05/24 • 7 min

Dr Beth Eyre narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.

Beth brings us news from last months ISTAART Subjective Cognitive Decline PIA Year in Review Webinar. The event explored the latest advancements in subjective cognitive decline (SCD) research, emphasising its significance as an early indicator for Alzheimer's disease. Beth highlights new findings that deepen understanding of SCD's role in Alzheimer's progression, including potential biomarkers and the impact of early intervention strategies. These insights are crucial for developing more effective treatments and preventive measures, underscoring the importance of continued research and collaboration in the field.

Find the original text, and narration here on our website.

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-biofluid-based-biomarkers-pia-year-in-review-recap/

Don’t forget, you can get involved in the SCD PIA by joining ISTAART and get access to previous webinars!

Dr Beth Eyre is a Postdoctoral Researcher at The University of Sheffield, researching Neurovascular and cognitive function in preclinical models of Alzheimer’s disease. Beth has a background in psychology, where she gained her degree from the University of Leeds. Inside and outside the lab, Beth loves sharing her science and in her blogs, she discusses her work, career and shares lessons she learns as she navigates life as an early career researcher.

This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support. Enjoy listening? We're always on the look out for new contributors, if you would like to write and narrate your own blog - drop us a line [email protected].

Don't forget to also listen to our fortnightly podcast, just look for Dementia Researcher in your podcast app.

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Dr Sam Moxon - Nutrition Metabolism & Dementia PIA Year in Review

Dementia Researcher Blogs

02/11/24 • 6 min

Dr Sam Moxon, narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.

Dr Sam Moxon summarises key findings from ISTAART's Nutrition Metabolism & Dementia PIA Year in Review webinar. It details how diets such as the Mediterranean, ketogenic, and MIND diets can slow cognitive decline, with the MIND diet also reducing amyloid pathology. The dangers of ultra-processed foods are highlighted, showing their association with cognitive decline. The recap also explores the muscle-brain axis, demonstrating the correlation between muscular and brain health, and the role of insulin in cognition, including the protective effects of nasal insulin sprays and the brain-specific benefits of eating nuts. The overarching message is clear: the food we consume significantly impacts brain health and dementia outcomes.

Find the original text, and narration here on our website.

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-nutrition-metabolism-dementia-pia-year-in-review-recap/

Don’t forget, you can get involved in the Nutrition, Metabolism & Dementia PIA by joining ISTAART and get access to previous webinars!

#DementiaResearch #ISTAART #DrSamMoxon #Nutrition #Dementia

Enjoy listening and reading our blogs? We're always on the look out for new contributors, drop us a line and share your own research and careers advice [email protected]

This podcast is brought to you in association with the NIHR, Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.

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Dr Anna Volkmer - Building blocks and PhD supervision skills

Dementia Researcher Blogs

11/20/23 • 5 min

Dr Anna Volkmer, narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.

Anna details her evolution from a Speech and Language Therapist to a PhD supervisor, highlighting her unique approach to supervising students. With a background rich in clinical experience, she applies strategies akin to coaching, emphasising reflective questioning and empathic listening. This helps supervisees develop their own conclusions and coping strategies. Drawing on her experiences as a PhD student and early career researcher, Anna emphasises a collaborative and supportive supervisory style. She focuses on refining students' research, presentation, and writing skills, while encouraging independence and responsibility. Her blog reflects on the challenges and joys of supervising, her commitment to supporting students financially, and her efforts in building a research team with a goal to aid people with dementia and their families.

Find the original text, and narration here on our website.

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-building-blocks-and-supervision-skills/

Dr Anna Volkmer is a Speech and Language Therapist and researcher in Language and Cognition, Department of Psychology and Language Sciences, University College London. Anna is researching Speech and language therapy interventions in language led dementia and was once voted scariest speech and language therapist (even her children agree).

If you would like to write your own blog drop us a line, we're always on the look out for new contributors to write about their research, careers + more [email protected]

This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.

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Hannah Hussain - What is statistical mapping?

Dementia Researcher Blogs

11/22/23 • 7 min

Hannah Hussain narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.

Hannah's blog addresses the intricacies of statistical mapping, a technique essential to her work investigating the differences in quality of life assessments for people living with dementia as reported by themselves and their proxies. She discusses her approach to quantitative analysis and the challenges she faced in understanding and applying statistical mapping. The blog aims to clarify this complex technique and provide guidance to those who are beginning to explore this area of research.

Find the original text, and narration here on our website.

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-what-is-statistical-mapping/

Hannah Hussain is a PhD Student in Health Economics at The University of Sheffield. As a proud third generation migrant and British-Asian, her career path has been linear and ever evolving, originally qualifying as a Pharmacist in Nottingham, then Health Economics in Birmingham. Her studies have opened a world into Psychology, Mental Health and other areas of health, and with that and personal influences she found her passion for dementia.

This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.

Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line [email protected]

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Dr Connor Richardson - 2023 Unfiltered: An honest diary of a researcher

Dementia Researcher Blogs

12/19/23 • 9 min

Dr Connor Richardson narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.

In this blog, Connor shares his eventful year in dementia research at Newcastle. Highlighting his professional journey, he reflects on securing an NIHR Fellowship, contributing to important publications, and engaging in global conferences like #AAIC23 in Amsterdam. Amidst these achievements, Connor also opens up about personal challenges, from an unsuccessful promotion bid to adapting to changes in his mentorship and personal life. His honest account provides a rare glimpse into the highs and lows of a researcher's life, illustrating resilience and the impact of personal experiences on professional growth. Join Connor as he navigates the intricate balance between career success and personal setbacks in the dynamic field of dementia research.

Find the original text, and narration here on our website.

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-2023-unfiltered-an-honest-diary-of-a-researcher/

Dr Connor Richardson is a Neuro-epidemiology Research Associate (soon to be NIHR Research Fellow) in the Newcastle University Population Health Sciences Institute. Connor is the research statistician for the Cognitive Function and Ageing studies (CFAS) multi-centre population cohort. His research interest lies in using advanced statistical modelling and machine learning to measure dementia risk. Connor blogs about his research, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and sometimes his Pomapoo’s.

Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk

This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.

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Marija Taneska - Nonpharmacological interventions PIA Year in Review Recap

Dementia Researcher Blogs

02/16/24 • 8 min

Marija Taneska, narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.

In this blog Marija shares highlights from the recent ISTAART's Nonpharmacological Interventions PIA Year in Review webinar. Exploring the significance of holistic dementia care and the role of digital tools in supporting caregivers. It discusses research on dementia beyond pharmacological treatments, emphasising the necessity for inclusive, co-produced interventions and the exploration of lifestyle interventions, neuromodulation, and digital technologies for enhancing dementia care. Upcoming projects and studies aim to further our understanding and application of nonpharmacological approaches in managing dementia.

Find the original text, and narration here on our website.

https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-nonpharmacological-interventions-pia-year-in-review-recap/

Don’t forget, you can get involved in the Nutrition, Metabolism & Dementia PIA by joining ISTAART and get access to previous webinars!

#DementiaResearch #ISTAART #Dementia

Marija Taneska is a Research Evidence Officer for the Alzheimer's Society and Student Representative at the ISTAART Nonpharmacological Interventions PIA. Marija reviews and synthesizes dementia evidence from different sources to inform Alzheimer's Society work. She is particulary close to the IDEAL, PriDem and NIDUS Projects and collaborates with researchers in dementia care to ensure mutual exchange and support. Marija is also a visiting Research Assistant at UCL, co-leading a project aimed to adapt the START (STrategies for RelaTives) intervention for family caregivers in Macedonia.

Enjoy listening and reading our blogs? We're always on the look out for new contributors, drop us a line and share your own research and careers advice [email protected]

This podcast is brought to you in association with the NIHR, Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support.

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Podcast Q&A

Why did you start this show?

Being an early career dementia researcher can be incredibly rewarding and challenging too. It is as much about new discoveries, collaborations and ideas as it is about the pressure to publish papers and the competition for funding. So, we put our heads together to create Dementia Researcher - a website, podcast and much more. A place to go to when you need some inspiration or want to get advice from other early career researchers and leading experts.

What do you hope listeners gain from listening to your show?

Every year we publish over 150 blogs written by early career researchers, for early career researchers. They talk about their research, experiences, careers and share advice. To help those who don't have time to read, or prefer to listen while they're on the move, all out bloggers read their blogs for your listening pleasure - we publish 2-3 of these short narrations each week in the Dementia Researcher Blogs Podcast. But if you prefer to read, you'll also find them on our website.

Which episode should someone start with?

The great things about these shows.... is that they're well catagorised and usually no more than 5-15 minutes long, so you can listen as they come out, or simply skip to the ones that will help or interest you. So if you're starting your PhD, we have shows about getting settled, time management, career planning, vivias.... or if your're a postdoc you might want to hear about grant writing, promotions, setting up a lab.... or just hear about some of the latest discoveries, news for everyone.

Which have been your favourite episodes so far?

We couldn't possibly comment... or choose a favourite... they're great blogs / podcasts, and each one is brought to life by being read back by the person who wrote it.

Which episode are you most proud of?

All those shows which are genuinely helpful to people.

What is your vision for your show?

Envision a lighthouse in the vast sea of content. Our aim for this show is to be that beacon, guiding listeners through waves of information, offering enlightening insights, heartfelt stories, and a dash of fun and practial support and advise and inspiration. We want to create show where curiosity meets depth, where every episode feels like a journey worth embarking on.

What is your favourite other podcast that isn't yours?

That's a tricky.... but of course I would have to say this shows big sister... Dementia Researcher. On that channel we have full length shows, released fortnightly the show brings researchers and experts together to talk about their work, share careers advise and talk about the latest discoveries from the conferences they've attended. It's all about sharing knowledge to help attract new people to the field, keep the people we have, and increase peoples understanding.

How did you come up with the name for your podcast?

I wish there was a clever answer to this.... but it really is just what it says on the tin. The Dementia Researcher Blogs - because they're blogs written by dementia researchers.

Tell us a bit about yourself

Dementia Researcher was started in 2018 by Adam Smith at University College London, with generous funding from the NIHR. Since then it has continued to grow and other funders now also contribute, they are Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia. Adam tells us that he was born in the North (of England) a long time ago, he wanted to write books but wasn't clever enough... so now he makes podcasts, talks a lot and is sometimes helpful.

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