Catherine Ajalo
Clinical Research Intervention Specialist
Catherine Ajalo holds a Bachelor of Science with Honours in Biomedical Science from the University of Lancashire, accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), UK. During her studies, she explored the molecular and cellular mechanisms of Alzheimer’s disease, focusing on the role of RE-1 Silencing Transcription Factor (REST) in neurodegeneration. She also gained hands-on experience working with individuals living with dementia across Lancashire, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to develop tailored care plans.
Currently, Catherine serves as a Clinical Research Intervention Specialist at the Brain and Mind Institute (BMI), where she supports the design, implementation, and cultural adaptation of multimodal dementia prevention interventions within the Africa-FINGERS trial. Her role includes participant engagement, site preparation, intervention delivery, and data collection, ensuring high-quality and culturally relevant research outcomes.
Before joining BMI, Catherine contributed to equity-focused academic initiatives at the University of Lancashire, serving on the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Board. In this role, she championed representation and supported efforts to decolonise the curriculum, reflecting her commitment to inclusive, community-grounded science.
Catherine is driven by a passion for advancing brain health equity, particularly addressing the underrepresentation of African and other underserved populations in research and the ripple effects this has on healthcare, education, policy, and community wellbeing.
She is a member of the Alzheimer’s Association International Society to Advance Alzheimer’s Research and Treatment (ISTAART). Her research publications can be accessed
here.
