Dementia researchers to share findings with public in Oxford

Scientists in Oxford are inviting members of the public to a free event on Saturday 17 March to hear more about current progress in dementia research. The meeting will involve talks from scientists at the forefront of research into the condition. The event is organised by members of the Alzheimer’s Research UK Oxford Network Centre, a community of dementia researchers from universities across the region.

Alzheimer’s Research UK is the UK’s leading dementia research charity, funding research into the causes of dementia, diagnosis, preventions and treatments. They fund more than £27m of dementia research across the UK, including pioneering work at the universities of Oxford, Oxford Brookes, and the University of Reading. The funding is allowing scientists in the region to uncover more about causes of dementia and contribute to the global effort to put a stop to the heartbreak of the condition.

Speakers on the day include Dr Francesco Tamagnini, from the University of Reading whose research involves exploring the causes of Alzheimer’s disease by measuring the electrical activity in brain’s memory centre. Also speaking is Dr Timothy Johanssen, who will talk about exciting new initiatives that are accelerating research towards new treatments for dementia. Attendees will get a chance to hear from Marianne Talbot, the author of ‘Keeping Mum – Caring for Someone with Dementia’. There will also be stalls with free information about dementia and how people can get involved in research studies.

Dr Mark Dallas, the Coordinator of the Alzheimer’s Research UK Oxford Research Network said:
“Dementia is our greatest medical challenge and there is a desperate need for effective new treatments. The brain is the final frontier of biological research, and this event is a fantastic opportunity for people to hear about the cutting-edge science taking place to tackle the diseases that cause dementia. Researchers at universities across the region are working to create a better future for those affected by dementia, and we hope many people come along to hear about advances scientists here are making.”

Robin Brisbourne from Alzheimer’s Research UK will also be speaking at the meeting, he said:
“There are around 850,000 people in the UK living with dementia, and what’s more it touches the lives of 1 in 3 people in the UK, with many acting as informal carers and working tirelessly to support a loved one with the condition. This event in Oxford is open to anyone who would like to learn more about the condition and hear about the pioneering research underway in the region.”

“We know people have many questions about dementia and this event provides a great way to find answers, and a chance for people with personal experience of the condition to meet others who may be in a similar situation. Research is providing hope for the future, but it’s not just about scientists in labs. People with dementia and their carers play a critical role in shaping research and this is a fantastic opportunity for discussing experiences and exchanging views. This meeting is open to anyone who would like to know more about dementia and the work of Alzheimer’s Research UK.”

The free event is being held from 10.00am – 1:00pm on Saturday 17 March at the Academic Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU. Refreshments will be provided, and parking is available (hospital charges apply). To find out more go to http://www.alzheimersresearchuk.org/our-research/what-we-do/meet-our-scientists/ and you can also book your place by contacting Mel Witt at aruk.administrator@dpag.ox.ac.uk or 01865 282358.

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