Dementia Researcher Blogs
Dementia Researcher blogs are written and then narrated by the authors. Through this podcast channel, we share the narrations, so you can listen back where ever you get your podcasts, as well as on our website - careers, research and your science. Brought to you by www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk - everything you need, all in one place.
Dr Becky Carlyle - Managing the Endless Demands of an Academic Career
Dr Becky Carlyle, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Becky explores the constant pressures of academia and the impossibility of âhaving it all.â Drawing on her experiences in both the UK and US, as well as lessons learned from elite sport, she discusses how setting clear long-term goals, building flexibility into plans, and learning when to say no are essential skills. She highlights the value of mentors, conscious decision making, and tailoring priorities to career stage and local context.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.http...
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali - Delirium and dementia: A neglected area of research?
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali explains the differences between delirium and dementia, while highlighting their complex relationship. She shows how delirium, often misdiagnosed, not only worsens dementia symptoms but can also accelerate diagnosis in those already at risk. With high prevalence in hospitals and care homes, and the treatable nature of delirium, Kam makes the case for why delirium superimposed on dementia deserves more attention from researchers and healthcare professionals.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
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Dr Yvonne Couch - Organizing a Conference
Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Dr Yvonne Couch takes readers behind the scenes of organising the 7th Pre-Clinical Stroke Conference in Oxford. She shares the challenges of finding funding, juggling logistics, and managing endless details, while also highlighting moments of creativity and fun. With practical advice on sponsors, registration, talks, and the importance of injecting some light-hearted elements, the piece offers an engaging, honest reflection on the realities of academic conference organisation.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
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Rebecca Williams - Career Decisions in Academia
Rebecca Williams, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Rebecca Williams challenges the idea of a single 'right' or 'wrong' career path in academia. Drawing from her own experience and her motherâs varied journey, she argues that every choice adds value, even if it feels like a detour. Rebecca encourages early career researchers to embrace uncertainty, see each step as part of a broader story, and focus less on optimisation and more on enjoyment of the path ahead.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
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Jacqui Kerr - The role of a Research Nurse in Dementia trials
Jacqui Kerr narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Jacqui Kerr reflects on her career as a research nurse in dementia trials. She explains how the role bridges patient care and clinical research, from pre-screening and informed consent to administering study treatments and cognitive assessments. Drawing on nearly two decades of experience, Jacqui highlights the importance of maintaining data integrity, building relationships with participants, and supporting them and their families. Her account shows how research nurses bring both skill and compassion to advancing dementia science.
Find the original text, and narration here...
Dr Lindsey Sinclair - What does it mean to be Perfect?
Dr Lindsey Sinclair narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Lindsey reflects on the pressure researchers feel to strive for perfection in their work. Drawing parallels with Donald Winnicottâs âgood enoughâ concept in parenting, she argues that the relentless pursuit of perfection can hinder progress, damage wellbeing, and leave work unfinished. Instead, she suggests focusing on excellence and recognising that imperfection is part of the scientific process, allowing for better balance and sustainability in research careers.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac...
Lesley Cousland - A Career from Nursing to Research
Lesley Cousland, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Lesley reflects on her journey from a childhood dream of nursing to a career in dementia research. She describes her shift from general to mental health nursing, her early glimpse into research, and her current role as a Clinical Studies Officer with the Neuroprogressive and Dementia Network. Lesley highlights the importance of inclusive research, the challenges and rewards of involving care homes, and the belief that research is ultimately about improving lives. ÂFind the original text, and narration here on our website.
Dr Jodi Watt - The Myth of the Neutral Scientist
Dr Jodi Watt, narrating a new blog they wrote for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Jodi examines the long-held belief that good science requires neutrality, questioning whether true objectivity is possible. Drawing on her work in dementia research, she reflects on how researchers inevitably bring their identities, experiences, and values into their work. Rather than seeing this as a threat to credibility, she argues for embracing reflexivity â recognising our positionality to ask better questions, address hidden biases, and strengthen research. For Jodi, humanity is not a weakness in science, but an essential part of doing it we...Emily Spencer - Letting Go of Mum Guilt
Emily Spencer, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Emily reflects on her experience as a working parent balancing a PhD with raising an energetic toddler. Initially confident in her childcare arrangement, she recently realised that juggling work during nap times while caring for her son on non-childcare days was leaving her exhausted and guilty. Emily describes the challenges of managing both roles, the comments that made her reassess her situation, and the decision to add an extra childcare day. She concludes that seeking more support will benefit both her and her...
Julie Scott - How I Got into Clinical Research: My Career Journey
Julie Scott narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Julie reflects on her varied career in care, from working in dementia wards to joining clinical research at 55. She shares how her skills evolved, the challenges of adapting to new procedures and technology, and the rewards of supporting volunteers in trials. Julie also highlights her teamâs work across dementia and other neuroprogressive diseases, the importance of adaptability, and the impact research can have on participantsâ wider health.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr...
Dr Peter Connelly - Patients, Practice and the Research Mindset
Dr Peter Connelly narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Dr Peter Connelly shares his journey through clinical research, starting with a student dissertation on cimetidine and stretching across decades in psychiatry and old age mental health. He discusses how each step, from early studies to NHS-led drug trials, taught him to question assumptions, listen carefully to patients, and seek better outcomes. His reflections offer valuable lessons for clinicians and researchers alike on integrating curiosity, service design, and rigour into everyday practice.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.<...
Victoria Gabb - Patient and Public Involvement & Engagement in the MCI Core Outcomes Study
Victoria Gabb, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Victoria Gabb reflects on her experience of embedding patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE) into the MCI Core Outcomes Study. She describes the challenges and successes of involving people with lived experience throughout the research process, from shaping research questions to co-developing study materials and ensuring more inclusive design. The blog highlights the broader value of PPIE in dementia research, such as improving communication, boosting inclusion, and building meaningful relationships with communities. It also stresses the need for researchers to report and...
Marian Montanha - How We Use Biomarkers in Dementia Trials
Marian Montanha, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Marian explains how biomarkers are used in dementia trials, particularly in diagnosing and tracking Alzheimerâs disease. She reflects on how current diagnostic tools fall short and explores how biomarker research could enable earlier and more accurate detection. Marian also shares her experience supporting participants in these studies, highlighting both the burden and the value of their involvement. Itâs a clear-eyed look at a tool that, while not perfect, is reshaping dementia research and treatment pathways.Find the original text, and narr...
Dr Lindsey Sinclair - Why does inclusion matter at scientific conferences?
Dr Lindsey Sinclair narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Lindsey reflects on her experiences attending conferences and the growing efforts to make them more inclusive. From accessible venues and quiet spaces to virtual options and support for parents, she highlights positive changes while urging organisers to go further. Drawing on personal anecdotes and practical examples, the blog argues that inclusive conferences arenât just fairerâthey improve the quality of science itself.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-why-does-inclusion-matter-at-scientific-conferences/
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali - The Impact of Dementia on Women
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Kam explores the disproportionate impact of dementia on women, examining both biological and social factors that heighten their risk. She discusses the underrepresentation of women in dementia research, the exclusion of females from clinical trials, and the additional caregiving burdens placed on women. The blog makes a clear case for action â not just to understand why women are more likely to develop Alzheimerâs, but also to ensure women researchers are better supported, retained, and promoted.
Find the original text, and narration here...
Dr ClĂona Farrell - Climate Change and the Brain
Dr ClĂona Farrell, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, ClĂona shares reflections from the Hot Brain 3 conference, which examined the intersection of climate change and brain health. From the exacerbation of neurological conditions like Dravet syndrome and dementia during heatwaves, to emerging links between rising temperatures and preterm births, the event laid bare the growing risks posed by a warming planet. With first-hand accounts, scientific findings, and health system responses, the blog highlights the urgent need for more research and action in both clinical and policy spaces.
Find th...
Rebecca Williams - Go with the Flo: Periods at Work
Rebecca Williams, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Rebecca Williams, opens up about the often-overlooked impact of periods on work and productivity. With a mix of personal reflection and scientific insight, she challenges the silence around menstruation in professional spaces. Highlighting the cognitive and emotional toll of PMS, she argues for more understanding, workplace flexibility, and dedicated research into menstrual health. This honest and relatable piece aims to help normalise conversations that have long been sidelined.Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher...
Dr Becky Carlyle - Presenting Your Data Like a Pro
Dr Becky Carlyle, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog Becky, shares how her early struggles with statistics shaped her thinking on data presentation. She offers practical guidance to help researchers present their results in ways that are clear, open, and reliable. From visualising full distributions to showing raw data and model outputs, she explains how small choices in presentation can make a big difference to how your research is interpreted and reused (you may want to read this blog to benefit from the excellent example graphics - links below).
Find...Adam Smith - AAIC 2025, Big, Busy and Worth It
Adam Smith narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this guest blog, Adam offers a view of what to expect from the Alzheimerâs Association International Conference (AAIC) 2025. Drawing on past experiences, he outlines why this global event matters, what makes it unique, and how first-timers can make the most of it without becoming overwhelmed. From orientation lounges to poster sessions and career development opportunities, Adam provides reassurance and practical advice for navigating the intensity of a week at one of the biggest dementia research conferences in the world â whether youâre attending in person or online...
Professor Brian Lawlor - Why doctors should rethink dementia as brain health
Professor Brian Lawlor narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Brian argues for a fundamental shift in how doctors approach dementia. Instead of seeing it solely as an incurable disease, he proposes a brain health framework that empowers clinicians to manage risks, prevent complications like delirium, reduce inappropriate medications, and support quality of life. By adopting proactive, holistic care strategies, Brian (and the evidence) believes dementia can become a more manageable condition, akin to how cancer care has evolved.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
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Lesley Cousland - Why Care Home Communities Deserve a Place in Research
Lesley Cousland, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Lesley makes a case for why care home communities must be fully included in research. Drawing on experience and examples from her work, she highlights the exclusion faced by residents and staff, not due to inability but because systems and assumptions make participation unnecessarily difficult. The blog outlines practical steps for inclusion and urges researchers, policymakers, and care providers to actively listen and involve those who live and work in care homes. ÂFind the original text, and narration here on our website.
Dr Yvonne Couch - Coaching and Self-Reflection
Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Yvonne shares her experience of working with a coach to explore identity, confidence, and purpose in academia. Through a humorous and vulnerable lens, she outlines how coaching has helped her challenge ingrained behaviours, understand her motivations, and untangle self-worth from professional achievement. The post highlights why self-reflection matters and how coaching can offer a constructive, external perspective for academics at all stages.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/b...
Dr Jodi Watt - Who Gets Left Out of Dementia Prevention?
Dr Jodi Watt, narrating a new blog they wrote for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Jodi Watt challenges the dominant narrative around dementia prevention. While lifestyle factors like diet and exercise are often emphasised, she argues these overlook deep-rooted structural inequalities. Jodi explores how factors such as poverty, racism, disability, housing, and access to healthcare shape exposure to risk and capacity to prevent dementia. She calls for a shift away from individual responsibility and towards systemic change, advocating for prevention strategies grounded in equity, lived experience, and justice.Find the original text, and...
Emily Spencer - The Exhausting Reality of Data Collection
Emily Spencer, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog Emily, writes about the exhausting reality of data collection in her dementia research. Working in GP surgeries to video record consultations, she reflects on the challenge of building trust, managing logistics, and staying composed while juggling the demands of parenting and long commutes. Though rewarding, the process is draining, and Emily explores how she is learning to rest and make space for recovery.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk...
Adam Smith - Closing the Gap Between Research and Implementation
Adam Smith narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this guest blog, Adam explores the persistent challenge of getting research findings into practice, especially in dementia care. Drawing on conversations from the Dementia Researcher podcast and community, he highlights the common frustrations researchers face when promising ideas stall after funding ends. Adam shares five practical strategies to bridge the gap between research and implementation, calling for funders and institutions to support the next step in making research useful and sustainable in real settings.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
<...Dr Lindsey Sinclair - Courage in Academic Life
Dr Lindsey Sinclair narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Lindsey explores the role of courage in academic life. From the challenge of stepping into the spotlight to asking for help, she shares examples of bravery at all levels of research careers. Drawing from her own journey, personal, professional, and occasionally painful, she reminds us that many small acts of courage can build a meaningful and successful career in science. Whether itâs speaking up, reaching out, or simply trying again, courage underpins progress.
Find the original text, and narration here on our...
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali - Does the research funding process need reforming?
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Kam critically explores how research funding is currently awarded and argues that the process, while central to academic success, is fraught with subjectivity and bias. Drawing on her own experiences and wider evidence, she considers reforms such as blind reviewing, partial randomisation, and incentives for good research practice, all with the aim of making the system fairer and more conducive to innovation, especially for early career and minoritised researchers.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
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Dr Emma Law - Why Some people Say No to Research And How We Can Respond
Dr Emma Law, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Emma explores why some people choose not to take part in dementia research. She looks at what might influence their decision, including misunderstandings, personal concerns, family pressure, and practical barriers. Emma offers respectful ways to respond, aiming to support informed choice while recognising that research is never the right option for everyone. ÂFind the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-why-some-people-say-no-to-research-and-how-we-can-respond/
#DementiaResearch #ClinicalTrials #Research #TrialDelivery
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Dr ClĂona Farrell - How to be okay facing the unknown
Dr ClĂona Farrell, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, ClĂona explores the challenge of facing an uncertain future as her first postdoc contract nears its end. Choosing to take a career break for travel without a fixed plan in place, she reflects on her discomfort with uncertainty, the pressure of well-meaning questions from others, and the wider instability faced by early career researchers. While offering no tidy solutions, ClĂona shares whatâs helping her cope, and invites others to join the conversation about managing change and the unknown.
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Dr Peter Connelly - When Clinical Trials Fail
Dr Peter Connelly narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Peter examines the emotional, professional, and organisational consequences of failed clinical trials. He reflects on the disappointment felt by both participants and staff, the challenges of managing expectations, and the importance of providing continued support. Drawing on practical insight, he reminds us that while not all trials lead to success, they still contribute valuable experience and learning for future studies.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-when-clinical-trials-fail/
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Rebecca Williams - Self-Worth versus Reviewer Two
Rebecca Williams, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Rebecca explores the emotional impact of academic rejection and the difficulty of separating personal worth from professional critique. Drawing on experiences from education through to journal submission, she offers practical ways to cope: allow yourself to react, lean on support, and regain perspective. With honesty and clarity, she encourages researchers not to bury their failures but to share them, learn, and keep moving forwardâbecause one reviewerâs opinion is never the full story.Find the original text, and narration here on our...
Bernie McInally - Dementia Research in Rural Areas
Bernie McInally narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Bernie reflects on his experience delivering dementia research in the Scottish Borders. Despite common barriers like geography, transport, and limited infrastructure, Bernie describes how community trust, clinical familiarity, and creativity turned challenges into opportunities. He highlights how integrating research into routine care and maintaining personal relationships across rural teams enabled exceptional recruitment results, showing that even dispersed populations can participate successfully in research.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-dementia-research-in-rural-areas/
Emily Spencer - Staying Ahead of the PhD Panic Curve
Emily Spencer, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog Emily reflects on the challenges of staying on track in her doctoral studies while balancing the demands of parenting. With limited funding time remaining, she outlines the steps sheâs taking to pre-empt delays, manage ethics approvals, and write speculatively, highlighting the pressure many face to submit within the three-year funding period. Her story is a reminder of the quiet juggling act many researchers perform behind the scenes.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
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Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali - Accelerated brain ageing and dementia
Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.
In this blog, Kam explores whether dementia could be understood as a form of accelerated brain ageing. Drawing on neuropathological evidence and the concept of biological age, she discusses the continuum between normal ageing and neurodegenerative disease, the role of risk and protective factors, and the potential of brain age measurement for early prediction of dementia. The blog also urges caution in relying solely on biomarkers for diagnosis, and argues for a more nuanced understanding of brain health across the lifespan.
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Dr Jodi Watt - Why Saying âDementedâ Isnât Just Wrong, Itâs Harmful
Dr Jodi Watt, narrating a new blog they wrote for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Jodi Watt challenges the continued use of the term âdementedâ in clinical and research contexts. She unpacks the damaging stereotypes it reinforces, explains the real-world harm it causes, and shows how small shifts in language can promote dignity, agency, and inclusion. Jodi makes a compelling case for adopting person-centred language like âperson living with dementiaâ and urges all of us â especially those in research and healthcare â to think more critically about the words we use. The post includes practical steps, reflections, and a call f...Dr Yvonne Couch - What Is DORA in Research and Why It Matters More Than You Think
Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Yvonne shares her belated discovery of DORAâthe Declaration on Research Assessmentâand reflects on its origins, aims, and ongoing challenges. Through a mix of personal anecdotes, historical context, and pragmatic critique, she explores why DORA matters in research evaluation, and why so many academics still struggle to fully embrace its principles, especially when faced with high-pressure hiring and promotion decisions. A must-read for researchers navigating the complexities of metrics, quality, and career progression.
Find the original text, and narration here...
Dr Becky Carlyle - It Could Happen Here: Defending Research from Politics
Dr Becky Carlyle, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this timely and personal blog, Becky urges scientists to take a more active role in defending research from political manipulation and public mistrust. Drawing parallels with the US experience, she argues that UK researchers cannot afford to stay apolitical, and must instead engage with their communities, communicate uncertainty clearly, and build coalitions at the local level. From co-designing research with the public to ditching online echo chambers for real-life conversations, Becky sets out practical ways to reconnect and reinforce scienceâs place in society.
...Ajantha Abey - Reflections on Thesis Writing
Ajantha Abey narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.
Ajantha reflects honestly on the demanding process of writing a PhD thesis, detailing the unexpected challenges, distractions, and perfectionist pitfalls encountered along the way. From severely underestimating the complexity of making figures, to handling late-stage data reanalysis and navigating life distractions, Ajanthaâs account highlights the emotional toll and practical hurdles of thesis completion. The piece offers reassuring insights and valuable tips on productivity, planning, and maintaining balance to help others navigate their thesis journey.
Find the original text, and narration here on our website.
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Dr Emma Law - What makes a good clinical research team?
Dr Emma Law, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, Emma Law shares her experience working with clinical research teams across Scotland. She reflects on the key qualities that make a team successfulâthorough preparation, mutual respect, clear communication, and the pivotal role of the coordinator. With practical examples and real-life stories, Emma highlights the importance of acknowledging team limitations, ensuring thorough training, and maintaining humour and compassion in the face of challenges. Her insights offer a grounded look into the realities of clinical trial delivery. ÂFind the original text, and narration her...
Dr ClĂona Farrell - First time through the publication process
Dr ClĂona Farrell, narrating her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.
In this blog, ClĂona reflects on the step-by-step process of getting her first first-author data paper published. Drawing on a project that began during her PhD and continued into her postdoc, ClĂona highlights the many layers of work involved â from early authorship discussions to final submission and revisions. Her account underscores how time-consuming, iterative, and unexpectedly complex academic publishing can be, offering an honest and practical perspective for researchers navigating their first manuscript journey.
Find the original text, and narration here on ou...
