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Dr Patricia Kelly
Name:
Dr Patricia Kelly
Job Title:
Lecturer in Neuromuscular and Neurodegenerative Research
Place of work / study:
Ulster University
Area of research?
Neurodegeneration In vivo (Alzheimer’s disease and ALS)
How is your research funded:
Pharma
Tell us a little about yourself:
Research scientist with over 12 years experience in Alzheimer’s disease research using animal models and advanced microscopy. Interested in learning how science can be used to help improve patient care.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself:
During my Masters and PhD in Alzheimer’s Research at Ulster University, I also served as a volunteer with the Alzheimer’s Society for five years. During this time, I helped my local community, which completely lacked Dementia services, to develop many long-term strategies to become Dementia Friendly. Almost 9 years later, my local community remain committed to helping patients with Dementia and their families by providing many weekly Dementia services within the Learmount Community Centre in Park Village, Northern Ireland. These services include a weekly social luncheon group for Dementia patients, a caregivers support group, signposting service to local Dementia Charities as well as Caregiver Training. I am very proud of the Learmount Community Centre’s commitment to helping patients with Dementia.
Why did you choose to work in dementia research?
My mother cared for an elderly neighbor who had Dementia and this was my first experience with the disease. I became fascinated and curious about the profound memory impairments and behaviors of the elderly neighbor and wanted to learn more about why these were occurring.
What single piece of advice would you give to an early career researcher?
Find good mentors.
Favourite ways to unplug and unwind?
Watching movies, tv shows, walking my dog in the forest, spin class or catching up with friends.
What book are you reading right now? Would you recommend it?
Why we sleep by Matthew Walker – Definitely recommend.
Favourite film of all time?
That’s a tough one – maybe The Matrix.
