Professor Fiona Carragher

Dementia is the UK’s biggest killer and one of the biggest health and social care challenges we face. Only through research can we hope to beat dementia. At Alzheimer’s Society, Professor Carragher holds a key role in the organisation's mission to be a leading force for change. Over seven years, Fiona has built the Society’s active research portfolio to over £54million. She is adept at formulating large-scale strategic initiatives. This extends to the global stage with her instrumental role in establishing the £4m+ Longitude Prize on Dementia. A Consultant Clinical Biochemist by background, she worked for two decades at a range of hospitals before joining the charity sector. As Deputy Chief Scientific Officer for NHS England, she provided leadership for 50,000 healthcare science professionals and expert advice - most notably in establishing the UK Antimicrobial Resistance Diagnostics programme and the system-wide Action Plan on Hearing Loss. Fiona also established the first Women in Science and Engineering fellowship programme in the NHS. Professor Carragher has an impressive track record in bridging the gap between research and policy to drive meaningful impact. She has an authentic, values-driven leadership style and leads with integrity, creating an environment where people belong and excellence thrives.