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Introduction to Research

Understanding our research

Research is fundamental to advancing medicine and improving care for people affected by memory problems. At MARC, every study we deliver brings us closer to better treatments and a future cure for dementia.

What is a Research Trial?

A research trial is a study that helps answer important questions about health, treatments, or medical practices. Its main goal is to test if a new treatment or method works well and is safe for people. Research trials can test new medicines, interventions, or therapies.

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In a trial, participants are usually split into two groups. In one group, participants receive a new drug or intervention, called the 'treatment group.' In the other group, participants may receive their usual treatment or no treatment at all, called the 'control group.' Over time, data is collected from each participant to compare if the new intervention works better or has fewer side effects.​

Dr. Jay Amin
Associate Professor in Psychiatry of Older Age and Honorary Consultant in Older People's Mental Health

“At MARC our internationally recognised studies range from landmark clinical trials in The Lancet, NEJM and Nature Medicine to pioneering research in neuroinflammation, stress, and innovative treatments.  They are transforming how we understand, diagnose, and treat dementia. By combining scientific excellence with compassionate clinical care, we are driving real progress and bringing hope to people and families affected by dementia today and in the future” 

Our Trials

We run different kinds of research trials. Our trials involve two main types: clinical trials and observational studies.

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Clinical trials test new treatments, drugs, or therapies. They are how we figure out if new treatments are safe and work well. 

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Observational studies collect information about people in their everyday life to learn about their health and memory, but without giving any treatment. Observational research helps us understand how a disease affects the person and the human body, which can direct ideas for new treatments or interventions. ​​

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What is involved?

Taking part in research involves giving some of your time to share information about your health. We keep all the information you share confidential and safe.

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Trials may include:

  • Questionnaires about your health and wellbeing

  • Memory assessments

  • Brain scans such as MRI and PET

  • Blood tests

  • Physical examinations including ECG​​

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Visit the NHS website to find out more about clinical trials

Who can take part?

We deliver research involving different groups of people, including:

 

  • Healthy volunteers aged 50-80

  • People living with Mild Cognitive Impairment

  • People living with dementia

What happens next?

Interested? Refer to us!

 

To assess if you are suitable for one of our research trials, we need your permission to access your medical records. This allows us to match you with a potential trial. Our team will then get in touch with you about research opportunities that are relevant to you. If you are happy for this to happen, contact us today. 

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Get ready to share your:

  • Full name

  • Date of birth

  • GP practice

  • NHS number (if you know it)

Our Trials

Explore our trials and opportunities to take part

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© 2026 by Memory Assessment & Research Centre. All right reserved.

Not to be reproduced in whole or in part without the permission of the copyright owner. 

Contact

Open hours: 9am - 5pm

(24 hour voicemail service is available)

Moorgreen Hospital
Botley Road, West End

Southampton, S030 3JB

United Kingdom

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