British Science Week (10th – 19th March) is an opportunity to celebrate science, technology, engineering and maths. The 2023 theme is connections. Race Against Dementia (RAD) connects dementia scientists and researchers from across the world through the RAD Fellowship Programme.
Dementia is an international issue with an estimated global cost of over US$1.3 trillion. This would make the global spend on dementia equivalent to the 14th largest economy in the world. It is estimated that currently over 55 million people are living with the disease. This figure is set to rise to 139 million by 2050. The race to find a prevention or cure is more urgent than ever.
Race Against Dementia is tackling this problem by funding early career researchers across the globe. These talented scientists join the Race Against Dementia Fellowship Programme, connecting an international network of dementia researchers.
“Dementia knows no borders and our research shouldn’t either”
RAD Fellow, Dr Cara Croft, based at University College London is exploring how genetic risk factors can contribute to the development of Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. She highlights the importance of a global approach to dementia research:
“Dementia knows no borders and our research shouldn’t either. The RAD network enables international collaborations so I can work alongside some of the best researchers in the world. I truly feel we will only make steps in dementia research if we are working together globally.” ~ Dr Cara Croft
Race Against Dementia funds research projects in the UK, Amsterdam, Switzerland, Australia and the US. RAD Fellows are paired with industry mentors and given exposure to Formula 1 and other technology companies. The aim is to share insights from industry that can be applied to medical research to accelerate the pace of a breakthrough in the dementia field.
“A unique platform to work with great minds in the field of dementia”
RAD Fellow Dr Adekunle Bademosi, whose work is carried out at the University of Queensland, says:
“This fellowship provides me with the unique platform to work with great minds in the field of dementia. My vision for how major solutions will be discovered in overcoming dementia will only be achieved through collaboration and teamwork – much like how Formula 1 has advanced over the years. I anticipate that many great strides will be made this decade in the progression of dementia and different therapeutics.” ~ Dr Adekunle Bademosi
British Science Week is an opportunity to celebrate scientific talent and the discoveries scientists achieve. If you would like to learn more about the work from RAD’s Research Fellows, please continue reading here.
Stats resources: Alzheimer’s Disease International
