Dr Lisa Broad
Vice President of Neuroscience Research and Managing Director, Lilly Research Labs UK
Alzheimer’s disease, the most common type of dementia,1 is a debilitating and fatal neurodegenerative disease that robs people of their memories, independence, relationships and, ultimately, their futures.
Alzheimer’s disease is one of the greatest health challenges currently facing the UK and places a significant burden on society, the NHS and the economy. I feel privileged to be involved in a disease area that matters deeply to me and others.
Alzheimer’s disease research progress
There has never been a more exciting time to work in Alzheimer’s disease research. As Vice President of Neuroscience Research and Managing Director of Lilly Research Labs in the UK, I work with talented and dedicated colleagues — from scientists to manufacturing experts — to continue Lilly’s 35-year heritage in driving scientific progress in Alzheimer’s disease. It’s been an extremely long process, but we are now at a tipping point for change.
Seeing the potential impact that research progress can have on people affected by Alzheimer’s disease, both those with the condition and those who care for them, is what drives me. Yet, people need an early and accurate diagnosis to access research today and scientific innovations in the future.
The UK has an opportunity right now
to lead the development of blood
tests to detect Alzheimer’s disease.
Developing a blood test for Alzheimer’s disease
The UK has an opportunity right now to lead the development of blood tests to detect Alzheimer’s disease. As science continues to progress, we need to work together to ensure our healthcare system has the right infrastructure to adopt the newest scientific advances and ensure they reach the people who need them.
Passion and collaboration drive STEM innovation
I couldn’t be prouder of Lilly’s relentless commitment to pursuing innovation in areas of huge unmet need. This passion for what you do is one of the most important qualities for anyone considering a future in STEM. There are diverse roles and opportunities, from early discovery to commercialisation, that all play a part in turning innovation into something that helps patients.
In Alzheimer’s disease, I’m fortunate to work with inspiring scientists, charities, policymakers and research institutes that all help drive research forward and create innovative solutions for patients.
PP-LN-GB-0081 June 2024
[1] NHS England (2024). Primary Care Dementia Data, February 2024. Available at: https://digital.nhs.uk/data-and-information/publications/statistical/primary-care-dementia-data/ february-2024 [Accessed: April 2024]
