Reflecting on the 2025 BNA Dementia Masterclass
On 4th June 2025, the British Neuroscience Association (BNA) hosted our first in-person event as part of the BNA Training Academy. The Dementia Masterclass, held at the Wellcome Collection in London, brought together world-leading experts for a full day of learning, discussion and networking.
The day began with a welcome from BNA Chief Executive Dr Laura Ajram followed by an introduction from Professor Tara Spires-Jones (University of Edinburgh, UK DRI and BNA Immediate-Past President), who also led a session later in the day on the neuroscience underlying dementias. The programme offered a rich and varied exploration of dementia, from foundational knowledge to cutting-edge research.
Following the day, Tara Spires-Jones reflected:
“It was inspiring to spend the day with such a diverse group of delegates, united by a shared commitment to understanding and tackling dementia. The quality of the workshop discussions and the depth of engagement throughout the day were a testament both to the importance of this topic and the value of in-person learning. I’m excited to see how the Masterclass grows in the years ahead.”
Highlights included:
- Professor Jonathan Schott (UCL) on dementia types, symptoms, and progression
- A moving interview exploring lived experience of caring for loved ones with dementia with Shaheen Larrieux, ARUK Ambassador
- Professor Carol Brayne (Cambridge) on risk factors including genetics and lifestyle
- Professor Henrik Zetterberg (Gothenburg, UCL, UK DRI) on biomarkers and clinical advances
- Professor Paresh Malhotra (Imperial) on therapeutic developments and clinical trials
- A collaborative workshop led by Professor Katie Lunnon (Exeter), encouraging attendees to reflect and share perspectives.
I personally enjoyed delving into Professor Henrik Zetterbergs intriguing journey into discovering fluid biomarkers for Alzheimer’s disease, Professor Paresh Malhotra’s emphasis on the clinical significance of Donanemab and Lecanemab and Professor Tara Spires-Jones' compelling research underlying synaptic neurodegeneration implicated in neurodegenerative conditions. It was great to network with many PhD students to discuss and present the challenges within the field of neurodegeneration to the cohort.
Looking Ahead
If you missed the Masterclass, don’t worry. The BNA are trialling recorded content for selected in-person events, and the Dementia Masterclass is now available on demand for a limited time. Access the sessions and explore the latest in dementia research and clinical practice.
The next BNA Dementia Masterclass will return in 2026, promising more cutting-edge insights, expert perspectives, and opportunities to connect.
Want to stay ahead in neuroscience? Visit the BNA events page to discover upcoming training and events designed to support your professional development.
A fantastic day filled with cutting-edge information and insight into dementia from a clinical, lived experience and research perspective…..I look forward to attending next year’s Masterclass.