Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali - What type of role models do we need in academia?

Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali narrates her blog written for Dementia Researcher. Kamar's blog explores the critical issue of the lack of diversity in academia, particularly within STEM fields, and the role of role models in addressing these disparities. Highlighting the specific challenges faced by women and racial/ethnic minorities, she discusses the importance of role models who reflect diverse demographic characteristics to inspire and guide underrepresented groups. Kamar argues that having role models in senior academic positions can help challenge the status quo and break the cycle of underrepresentation, thus fostering a more inclusive and diverse academic environment. Her insights underscore the significant impact that relatable role models can have on the career trajectories of individuals in academia, especially in fields like dementia research where women are disproportionately affected yet underrepresented in senior roles. Find the original text, and narration here on our website. https://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk/blog-what-type-of-role-models-do-we-need-in-academia/ -- Dr Kamar Ameen-Ali is a Lecturer in Biomedical Science at Teesside University & Affiliate Researcher at Glasgow University. In addition to teaching, Kamar is exploring how neuroinflammation following traumatic brain injury contributes to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases that lead to dementia. Having first pursued a career as an NHS Psychologist, Kamar went back to University in Durham to look at rodent behavioural tasks to completed her PhD, and then worked as a regional Programme Manager for NC3Rs. -- Enjoy listening? We're always looking for new bloggers, drop us a line. http://www.dementiaresearcher.nihr.ac.uk This podcast is brought to you in association with Alzheimer's Association, Alzheimer's Research UK, Alzheimer's Society and Race Against Dementia, who we thank for their ongoing support. -- Follow us on Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/dementia_researcher/ https://www.facebook.com/Dementia.Researcher/ https://twitter.com/demrescommunity https://www.linkedin.com/company/dementia-researcher