Program Overview

Alzheimer's Society Doctoral Training Centre for Integrated Dementia Care

The Alzheimer's Society Doctoral Training Centre for Integrated Dementia Care (I-Care DTC) is a revolutionary program aimed at training the next generation of dementia researchers in a truly integrated approach that combines primary care, secondary care, and health and social services.

Our Vision

At the heart of our centre is the commitment to deliver holistic, easy-to-navigate, and supportive care for people living with dementia. The Centre's research will focus on four vital themes:

• Independence, autonomy and choice – which will ensure that every person with dementia will have a voice in their care
• Complexity and risk – to find ways to provide joined-up and coordinated care for people with multiple health and care needs
• Under-served populations – to ensure that everyone has equal access to high quality care
• End of life care – to ensure that quality of care is improved at this critical time, and that people's needs are respected and met with compassion.

Our Approach

Our centre brings together experts from five leading universities: Queen Mary University of London, Leeds Beckett University, the University of Plymouth, University College London, and the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). This collaboration fosters innovative research and strengthens the field of dementia care.

Training the Next Generation

Students at our I-Care DTC are guided by supervisors from top universities, NHS professionals, and social care experts. They will develop projects that aim to improve care and support for people with dementia, learning from a diverse range of research methods and real-world experiences.

Joining the I-Care DTC

The Centre has funding for 29 PhD students over 8 years, with a new cohort each year for five years. The first cohort starts in October 2025.

Partnered with

• Alzheimer's Society

Research Areas

The I-Care DTC focuses on four key research areas:

• Independence, autonomy and choice
• Complexity and risk
• Under-served populations
• End of life care

Programme Details

The programme is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of dementia care and research. The Centre's research will be guided by the four vital themes, and students will have the opportunity to work with leading experts in the field.

Programme Structure

The programme will consist of a series of research projects, each focusing on one of the four key research areas. Students will be guided by supervisors from top universities, NHS professionals, and social care experts, and will have the opportunity to develop their skills and knowledge in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Programme Funding

The Centre has funding for 29 PhD students over 8 years, with a new cohort each year for five years. The funding will cover tuition fees and living expenses for the duration of the programme.

Eligibility

The programme is open to students from a variety of backgrounds, including those with a degree in a relevant field such as healthcare, social care, or a related discipline. Applicants must demonstrate a strong interest in dementia care and research, and must be willing to work in a collaborative and interdisciplinary environment.

Application Process

Applications for the programme will be accepted on a yearly basis, with a new cohort starting each October. Applicants must submit a formal application, including a personal statement, CV, and academic transcripts. Shortlisted applicants will be invited for an interview, and successful applicants will be notified shortly after.

Programme Duration

The programme will last for 3-4 years, depending on the individual student's progress and research goals. Students will be expected to complete a series of research projects, and to produce a thesis that makes a significant contribution to the field of dementia care and research.