• Dr Sam Moxon - Flying Solo to an International Conference? A Survival Guide
    Sep 26 2024

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

    In this blog, Sam provides practical advice for PhD students and postdocs attending conferences alone, especially overseas. Sam shares his personal experience, acknowledging that while solo travel can seem daunting, it offers significant personal and professional growth opportunities. He gives key tips, such as preparing thoroughly for the trip to reduce anxiety, obtaining an e-SIM to stay connected, using long-haul flights as a chance to relax, arriving early to explore the area, and making efforts to network at the event. Ultimately, he emphasises that solo travel can be a rewarding and empowering experience.

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

    https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-flying-solo-to-an-international-conference-a-survival-guide/

    --

    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.

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    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 dementiaresearcher@ucl.ac.uk

    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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    8 mins
  • Dr Yvonne Couch - The Open Secret: A Piece on Academic Bullying
    Sep 24 2024

    Dr Yvonne Couch, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.

    Yvonne’s blog, tackles the pervasive issue of academic bullying, exploring how power imbalances and toxic behaviours are often overlooked in academia. Drawing from personal experiences and insights from experts, the blog explores the subtle and overt forms of bullying that thrive in hierarchical environments. Yvonne challenges the culture that permits such behaviour and offers reflections on how systemic change, especially in leadership and mentorship, is essential for a healthier academic workplace.

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

    https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-the-open-secret-a-piece-on-academic-bullying/

    --

    Dr Yvonne Couch is an Alzheimer's Research UK Fellow and Associate Professor at the University of Oxford. Yvonne studies the role of extracellular vesicles and their role in changing the function of the vasculature after stroke, aiming to discover why the prevalence of dementia after stroke is three times higher than the average. It is her passion for problem solving and love of science that drives her, in advancing our knowledge of disease. Yvonne writes about her work, academic life, and careers as she takes a new road into independent research @dr_yvonne_couch

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    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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    • https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
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    11 mins
  • Yasmin Bonsu - Returning to University Post-Placement Year: Nervous or Excited?
    Sep 23 2024

    Yasmin Bonsu, narrates her blog written for the Dementia Researcher website.

    Yasmin shares her reflections and anticipations as she transitions from a hands-on placement year back to the theoretical environment of university for her final year. She discusses the skills and insights gained from her time in a research lab, her evolving academic and career aspirations in neuroscience, and her strategies to integrate practical lab experiences with classroom learning. Yasmin's story provides a thoughtful perspective on navigating the shift from practical work to academic theory while gearing up for the future challenges and opportunities that her final year at The University of Manchester will bring.

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

    https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-returning-to-university-post-placement-year-nervous-or-excited/

    --

    Yasmin Bonsu is an an undergraduate student from the University of Manchester currently undertaking a placement year at Wade-Martins Lab at Oxford University. Yasmin is investigating the activity of proteoforms of the granin family in cortical neurons insulted with oligomerised amyloid beta. Her goal is to finish her placement year, earn her bachelor’s degree in neuroscience, and then pursue a PhD in clinical neuroscience. Through Yasmin's blogs we'll gain insights on life as an undergraduate, and hopefully inspire others to pursue a career in dementia research. @yasminnnx2

    --

    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.

    --

    Follow us on Social Media:

    • https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
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    5 mins
  • Adam Smith - The Evolving Landscape of PhD Funding
    Sep 21 2024

    Adam Smith narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.

    Adam’s blog discusses the evolving landscape of PhD funding, particularly the growing prominence of Doctoral Training Centres (DTCs). These centres offer structured, interdisciplinary, and cohort-based programmes, contrasting with traditional individual funding models. Adam highlights the benefits of DTCs, such as fostering collaboration, providing peer support, and delivering tailored training, which collectively enhance the PhD experience. However, he also acknowledges challenges, including the potential for reduced flexibility and the risk of excluding researchers whose interests fall outside the centres' thematic priorities. The blog advocates for a balanced ecosystem that includes both DTCs and individual funding options.

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

    https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-the-evolving-landscape-of-phd-funding/

    --

    Adam Smith was born in the north, a long time ago. He wanted to write books, but ended up working in the NHS, and at the Department of Health. He is now Programme Director in the Office of the NIHR National Director for Dementia Research (which probably sounds more important than it is) at University College London. He has led a number of initiatives to improve dementia research (including this website, Join Dementia Research & ENRICH), as well as pursuing his own research interests. In his spare time, he grows vegetables, builds Lego & spends most of his time drinking too much coffee and squeezing technology into his house.

    --

    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.

    --

    Follow us on Social Media:

    • https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
    • https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
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    9 mins
  • Dr Connor Richardson - In Defence of Academia
    Sep 20 2024

    Dr Connor Richardson narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.

    Connor's blog offers a thoughtful reflection on the challenges and rewards of an academic career. Prompted by a personal conversation with his mother, Connor addresses the common perception that academic research is a source of stress and dissatisfaction. He counters this by highlighting his deep love for science, the intellectual fulfilment he finds in solving complex problems, and the unique sense of community and mentorship within academia. He also emphasises the benefits of flexible work environments, personal growth, and the opportunities for travel and collaboration that come with a career in research.

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

    https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-in-defence-of-academia/

    --

    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.

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    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.

    --

    Follow us on Social Media:

    • https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
    • https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
    • https://twitter.com/demrescommunity
    • https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher
    • https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social
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    6 mins
  • Dr Hannah Hussain - Reflections on My PhD Viva and Next Steps
    Sep 17 2024

    Hannah Hussain narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher.

    In her final blog, Dr (Yes it's Doctor now) Hannah Hussain reflects on her PhD viva experience, offering valuable tips for preparation and success. She highlights the importance of giving yourself enough time to revise, the benefits of doing a mock viva, and the need for confidence on the big day. Hannah also shares insights on handling corrections post-viva and navigating the transition from academia to the job market, providing practical advice based on her own journey. As she moves into a new role as an economist, this blog marks the end of her writing journey with the Dementia Researcher team, but you can follow Hannah on LinkedIn to keep in-touch with her career progress..

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

    https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-reflections-on-my-phd-viva-next-steps/

    #PhDLife #PhDViva #Viva

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    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 dementiaresearcher@ucl.ac.uk

    --

    Follow us on Social Media:

    • https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
    • https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
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    • https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher
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    4 mins
  • Martin Robertson - My Experience as a Co-Researcher
    Sep 12 2024

    Martin Robertson narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.

    Martin shares his personal journey as a Co-Researcher following his diagnosis with Posterior Cortical Atrophy (PCA), a rare form of dementia. He reflects on how the shift to online work during the COVID-19 pandemic allowed him to stay active and engaged in research, which his neurologist believes has slowed the progression of his condition. Drawing on his past professional experiences in benefit fraud and personal care, Martin highlights the transferable skills that have helped him thrive in academic settings. Despite his cognitive challenges, he values the sense of empowerment and teamwork that co-research provides, allowing him to contribute meaningfully while managing his condition.

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

    https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-my-experience-as-a-co-researcher/

    --

    Martin Robertson is a lived experience researcher living in Scotland. He has been involved in a number of research projects and is passionate about co-production and public voice in research since his diagnosis with Posterior Cortical Atrophy, in 2016 aged 57

    --

    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.

    --

    Follow us on Social Media:

    • https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
    • https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
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    • https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher
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    6 mins
  • Adam Smith - Making Friends When You're the Newcomer
    Sep 10 2024

    Adam Smith narrates his blog written for Dementia Researcher.

    Adam's blog, explores the challenges of forming new connections as an adult in unfamiliar environments, such as new workplaces or countries. He offers practical advice on how to start small by greeting others, showing up to social events, asking questions, and finding common interests. Adam emphasises patience, open-mindedness, and the importance of following up with people to maintain connections. The blog encourages readers to embrace the awkwardness and take proactive steps in building meaningful friendships.

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

    https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-making-friends-when-youre-the-newcomer/

    --

    Adam Smith was born in the north, a long time ago. He wanted to write books, but ended up working in the NHS, and at the Department of Health. He is now Programme Director in the Office of the NIHR National Director for Dementia Research (which probably sounds more important than it is) at University College London. He has led a number of initiatives to improve dementia research (including this website, Join Dementia Research & ENRICH), as well as pursuing his own research interests. In his spare time, he grows vegetables, builds Lego & spends most of his time drinking too much coffee and squeezing technology into his house.

    --

    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.

    --

    Follow us on Social Media:

    • https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/
    • https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/
    • https://twitter.com/demrescommunity
    • https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher
    • https://bsky.app/profile/dementiaresearcher.bsky.social
    Show more Show less
    8 mins