Dr Royhaan-Folarin

AbstractINTRODUCTIONDespite representing an essential workforce, it is unclear how global policy efforts target early‐career dementia researchers (ECDRs). Thus, this study aimed to provide an overview of policies through which ECDRs are considered and supported by dementia plans and organizations.METHODSG20 member states were evaluated for their national dementia plan alongside policies of leading dementia organizations. Data targeting support for ECDRs were extracted and subject to content analysis using inductive coding. Findings were categorized and narratively synthesized.RESULTSOnly China, Denmark, England, Greece, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Spain, and the United States mentioned ECDRs in their national plan. Additionally, 17 countries formalized ECDR support via dementia organizations. Support efforts included research funding, dissemination and networking, career development, and research advice.DISCUSSIONFew nations formally recognized ECDRs in dementia plans or through dementia organizations. To facilitate equal prospects for ECDRs, top‐down approaches are urged to enhance and align their efforts.Highlights Few G20 countries (8/46) had national dementia plans for early‐career researchers. Targeted support comes from government and nongovernmental dementia organizations. Support includes funding, training, advice, research dissemination, and networking. Inconsistent definitions and eligibility criteria are barriers to accessing support. Global coordination and top‐down policy will aid early‐career dementia researchers.

AbstractINTRODUCTIONDespite representing an essential workforce, it is unclear how global policy efforts target early‐career dementia researchers (ECDRs). Thus, this study aimed to provide an overview of policies through which ECDRs are considered and supported by dementia plans and organizations.METHODSG20 member states were evaluated for their national dementia plan alongside policies of leading dementia organizations. Data targeting support for ECDRs were extracted and subject to content analysis using inductive coding. Findings were categorized and narratively synthesized.RESULTSOnly China, Denmark, England, Greece, Northern Ireland, Scotland, Spain, and the United States mentioned ECDRs in their national plan. Additionally, 17 countries formalized ECDR support via dementia organizations. Support efforts included research funding, dissemination and networking, career development, and research advice.DISCUSSIONFew nations formally recognized ECDRs in dementia plans or through dementia organizations. To facilitate equal prospects for ECDRs, top‐down approaches are urged to enhance and align their efforts.Highlights Few G20 countries (8/46) had national dementia plans for early‐career researchers. Targeted support comes from government and nongovernmental dementia organizations. Support includes funding, training, advice, research dissemination, and networking. Inconsistent definitions and eligibility criteria are barriers to accessing support. Global coordination and top‐down policy will aid early‐career dementia researchers.

Introduction The World Health Organization recognizes dementia as a public health priority and highlights research as an action to respond to the consequences, with early career dementia researchers (ECDRs) representing the key driving force. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, however, biomedical and psychosocial dementia research was strained worldwide. The aim of this study was to understand the impact of the pandemic on ECDRs. Methods In autumn 2021, the Alzheimer’s Association International Society to Advance Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment (ISTAART) Professional Interest Area to Elevate Early Career Researchers (PEERs) and University College London conducted an online survey querying ECDRs’ experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey was shared through the ISTAART network, social media, podcasts, and emailing lists. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results Survey data from n = 321 ECDRs from 34 countries were analyzed (67.6% women; 78.8% working in academia). Overall, 77.8% of ECDRs surveyed indicated research delays, 53.9% made project adjustments, 37.9% required additional or extended funding, and 41.8% reported a negative impact on career progression. Moreover, 19.9% felt unsupported by their institutions and employers (33% felt well supported, 42.7% somewhat supported). ECDR’s conference attendance remained the same (26.5%) or increased (More: 28.6%; a lot more: 5.6%) since the start of the pandemic. Continental differences were visible, while the impact of the pandemic did not differ greatly based on ECDRs’ sociodemographic characteristics. Conclusions The COVID-19 pandemic had a substantial impact on ECDRs worldwide and institutions, employers, and funding bodies are urged to consider the implications and lessons-learned when working with, managing, and promoting ECDRs. Strategies related to the pandemic and general career support to improve ECDRs career progression are discussed, including social media training, digital networking, and benefits of hybrid events. Global resources specific for ECDRs are highlighted.