In October 2022, Alzheimer Scotland, with the support of the SDRC, launched the first round of our Student Research Programme. This programme will fully fund a student for a Masters (MRes) project at a university in Scotland relating to dementia and/or brain health, including tuition fees, consumables, and a stipend.
The Alzheimer Scotland Student Research Programme is an exciting initiative aimed at enhancing the research environment in Scotland. It will provide an opportunity for a student to gain valuable research experience, develop their skills and knowledge, and contribute to the understanding of dementia. By collaborating with colleagues, volunteers, and networks within Alzheimer Scotland, the programme can offer more than just financial support and is committed to supporting the professional and personal development of the successful awardee.
Following an in-depth and competitive selection process, led by members of the Scottish Dementia Working Group and the National Dementia Carers Action Network, we are delighted to announce that the successful project has been chosen.
The winning project is titled “Trauma and dementia diagnosis: An investigation of the potential for a trauma-formed pathway through the diagnosis of dementia, for people under 65 years old”, and will be supervised by Dr Anna Jack-Waugh, Senior Lecturer in dementia from the University of the West of Scotland.
The project will focus on the experiences of receiving a diagnosis of dementia for people under 65. It is already understood that delayed diagnosis can lead to a lack of timely treatment, support, and care planning. This research explores how a trauma-informed approach, which recognises and addresses the potential for trauma, could be effective for individuals and their families. This is important as the diagnosis experience should not contribute to the trauma associated with a life-altering condition, and the findings of this study have the potential to reduce the long-term impact of trauma linked with diagnosis on physical and mental health.
The shortlisted candidates were exceptionally strong. This specific project was selected due to its close alignment with the Research Programme’s objectives and priorities. The project researches an area which would be of benefit to many people and make a difference to lives of people with dementia and their families.
Martin Rossor, Chair of the Alzheimer Scotland Student Research Programme selection panel said: “This is an important initiative and I am delighted to be involved with such an exciting new venture”
The next steps of this award is to recruit a student to undertake the project. The recruitment process will begin in June 2023, with the project itself starting in October. Follow Alzheimer Scotland and the SDRC on Twitter if you are interested in applying.
Both Alzheimer Scotland and the SDRC are really looking forward to working with the team on this project.