From major government announcements to scientific breakthroughs, and well-deserved recognition for our outstanding Fellows, June has been packed with momentum. Here’s what’s been making headlines in the race against dementia:
1. Government Spending Review
The Government’s latest Spending Review brings promising news that could shape the future of dementia research:
- Research and development investment rising to £22.6 billion annually by 2029 signals a strong commitment to scientific research and development. While exact allocations are pending, this boost is encouraging.
- The Missions Accelerator programme aims to supercharge collaboration between public and private sectors – potentially speeding up innovation in dementia diagnostics and treatments.
- A review of visa schemes for global talent could help attract and retain world-class researchers in the UK, a vital move for advancing neuroscience.
- A £2 billion investment in AI has huge potential for dementia research – from faster brain scan analysis to early detection via eye tests.
- Plans for a new Health Data Research Service, in partnership with the Wellcome Trust, could transform clinical trials by giving researchers faster, smarter access to vital data.
2. Scientific Breakthrough: Blood test detects Alzheimer’s with 95% accuracy
Researchers at the Mayo Clinic have developed a blood test that detects Alzheimer’s with 95% accuracy by analysing specific plasma proteins. This game-changing advance could allow earlier more accurate diagnoses – and better chances for early treatment.
3. Recognising our Fellows
June was a proud month for our Race Against Dementia Fellows, as their groundbreaking work gained recognition across the scientific community:
Dr. Aitana Sogorb-Esteve received a Distinguished Alumni Ambassador Award from the University of Alicante at their 4th Alumni Gala.
Dr. Wiola Zelek was named a finalist for the BSI Early Career Research Excellence Award at the British Society for Immunology’s 2025 Awards.
Dr. Audrey Low received a WeAreTheCity Rising Star Award for her innovative work on dementia risk factors and prevention using multimodal neuroimaging.
4. Now open: The Race Against Dementia Ignition Fund
We’ve launched the Race Against Dementia Ignition Fund, designed to fund new leads, promising ideas and projects that challenge traditional thinking, and fast track unexpected breakthroughs.
Applications are now open for early to mid-career researchers who are looking to pursue surprising findings and high potential ideas – learn more and apply here.
June’s developments reaffirm why Race Against Dementia exists. To find a cure – faster.
