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Dr David Koss
Name:
Dr David J. Koss
Job title:
Research Associate
Place of work / study:
Area of Research:
Neurodegenerative dementias (Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia).
How is your work funded?
External funding sources.
Tell us a little about yourself:
I aim to understand the molecular pathology which underpins a range of neurodegenerative dementias. This principally involves the delineation of various cellular stress responses, the stimuli which activates them, how they interact with hallmark pathology and when in terms of disease progression, such responses become activated. I employ a variety of investigatory methods, including immuno-based assays and proteomics which I apply to post-mortem human tissue, but also cellular disease models. The aim of my work is to highlight pathological changes in stress pathways which are therapeutically exploitable and ultimately can be translated into improved clinical interventions. Whilst I foremost investigate Alzheimer’s disease and Lewy body dementia, I am keenly aware that on a mechanistic level there are points of commonality across the neurodegenerative spectrum. Accordingly, I feel that working to share the knowledge base acquired across the many associated diseases may help to establish an understanding of the detrimental pathways engaged within the aging brain.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
I used to be a DJ in my spare time and still have excess amounts of vinyl. Check out my Spotify playlist before you decide whether this is a fun fact or not.
Why did you choose to work in dementia?
Initially, I had a fascination with the brain, but more specifically the operation of neurons and how over a lifetime of activity, their homeostatic mechanisms can fail, leading to catastrophic events. Now, I still have the fascination (most days), but I really hope we can make a difference to those living with dementia.
What single piece of advice would you give to an early career researcher?
Take breaks when you need them!
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
Not a book but a video game “Detroit become human”. Yes I’d recommend it, 12hrs of character based decisions and consequences.
Can we find you on Twitter & Instagram?
Want to share your playlist?
Dr Chris Henstridge