Alzheimer's Research UK

Rebecca Wood, Chief Executive

Rebecca became Chief Executive of Alzheimer’s Research UK in June 1997.

During her time leading Alzheimer’s Research UK, the charity has funded £33 million worth of ground breaking research – including initial funding for the GWAS study led by Prof Julie Williams – one of Time magazines most important findings of 2010.

Rebecca is a passionate advocate for dementia research. In 2008 she met with Gordon Brown to raise the profile of dementia research. In 2010, the Dementia 2010 report was released highlighting the impact of dementia on the UK economy. Rebecca also sits on the Ministerial Advisory Group for Dementia Research.

Dr Marie Janson, Director of Development

Marie Janson trained as a medical doctor in Sweden and also holds a PhD in Clinical Genetics. She has worked in business as a management consultant, before bringing her skills and experience to the charity sector. Marie joined Alzheimer’s Research UK in 2003.

Marie sees her role as inspiring individuals and organisations to get involved in defeating dementia. She does this through presentations, personal meetings and media appearances.

Dr Eric Karran , Director of Research

Eric joined Alzheimer’s Research UK in 2012 and has responsibility for high-level external representation of our charity as well as driving forward our research strategy. Eric has extensive dementia research experience gained from working in the pharmaceutical industry, holding senior positions in Neuroscience drug discovery research groups (most recently Chief Scientific Officer at Janssen Pharmaceuticals in Belgium), focusing on finding therapeutics for Alzheimer’s disease. He has interacted widely with leading academic groups in the UK, Europe and the USA, as well as working with public funding agencies such as the MRC.

Dr Simon Ridley Head of Research

Simon joined Alzheimer's Research UK in January 2009, where he is responsible for administering our grants programme . As Head of Research he follows new developments in dementia research. Simon is a regular media spokesperson on research matters.

Simon has extensive experience as a researcher and has worked in industry. He studied biochemistry at Trinity College Dublin and obtained his PhD from Cambridge University.

Miranda Mays Community and Corporate Fundraising Manager

Miranda joined Alzheimer's Research UK in 2010, moving from the corporate arena.

Miranda conveys her own passion for the importance of dementia research, engaging companies and individuals to partner with us, joining our imaginative and inspiring fundraising community of people and businesses committed to defeating dementia.

Joanne Fearne Legacy Officer

Joanne has contributed to Alzheimer’s Research UK’s development since 1996. In 2001 she became the Legacy Officer, and obtained the Institute of Legacy Management/College of Law certificate in Legacy Administration.