A renowned neuroscientist is set to return to Cardiff to lead one of the UK’s foremost centers for dementia research. Professor Baljit Khakh, a global authority on astrocytes and brain function, has been appointed Director of the UK Dementia Research Institute (UK DRI) at Cardiff University.
The Cardiff-based UK DRI is among several centers hosted at leading universities across the UK, established with funding from the Medical Research Council (MRC) and UK dementia charities. Its mission is to enhance understanding, develop tests, and create treatments for neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, and Motor Neuron Disease.
Professor Khakh’s Vision for Advancing Dementia Research
“I was pleasantly surprised and deeply honored to be entrusted with this role. I approach the position with humility, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of purpose. I hope to make a meaningful difference to the lives of people affected by dementia by advancing new therapeutic mechanisms grounded in fundamental neuroscience, and by helping to build a research environment where great science and great scientists can thrive,” said Professor Khakh.
Professor Khakh emphasized the exceptional scientific environment at Cardiff University, noting its expertise in genetics, immunology, and data science. “Cardiff University is home to exceptional scientists and neuroscientists, offering a rich and intellectually stimulating environment. The University has also made significant investments in world-class infrastructure,” he added.
Scientific Contributions and Recognition
Currently a Professor of Physiology and Neurobiology at UCLA, Professor Khakh has made significant advances in understanding brain function. His research focuses on the interaction between neurons and astrocytes, which are crucial for brain health and understanding diseases.
His pioneering work has been recognized with several awards, including the Paul G. Allen Distinguished Investigator Award, the 134th UCLA Faculty Research Lecture, the NIH Director’s Pioneer Award, and an Outstanding Investigator Award from the National Institutes of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Most recently, he was elected to Fellowship of the Royal Society (FRS) – the highest accolade in UK Science.
Science Minister Lord Patrick Vallance commented, “Professor Khakh has made outstanding contributions to our understanding of brain health through his career to date. His work will only go from strength to strength, leading a research hub that is transforming the lives of people affected by neurodegenerative conditions.”
Returning to Roots and Building Future Leaders
Professor Khakh is no stranger to Cardiff, having earned his undergraduate degree there before completing his PhD at Cambridge. He also completed post-doctoral training at Bristol University and Caltech. In 2001, he began his research group at the MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology in Cambridge, moving to UCLA in 2006. There, he has led innovative research and mentored future scientists, many of whom now run successful research groups globally.
Cardiff University’s Vice-Chancellor, Professor Wendy Larner, expressed her excitement: “I am delighted that Professor Khakh will be joining Cardiff University as our new UK DRI Director. His appointment is not only a coup for Cardiff University but also a ringing endorsement for Wales and UK science.”
Collaborative Endeavors and Future Prospects
The UK DRI is funded by the MRC, the UK Government’s £54M Global Talent Fund, and The Moondance Foundation. Professor Patrick Chinnery, MRC Executive Chair, stated, “As principal funder of the UK DRI, MRC welcomes Professor Baljit Khakh back to the UK as Director of the UK DRI at Cardiff. His appointment exemplifies the strength of UK science and its attractiveness to international research leaders.”
Professor Siddharthan Chandran, Director of the UK Dementia Research Institute, added, “I am thrilled to welcome Professor Khakh back to the UK as the new Centre Director for the UK DRI at Cardiff University. Bal is an exceptional scientist who has already contributed so much to the field of neurobiology and neurodegeneration.”
The appointment of Professor Khakh is expected to bolster Cardiff’s standing as a leading center for dementia research, promising advancements in understanding and treating neurodegenerative disorders.
