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DARI


Advancing brain health through research, collaboration and innovation

The Texas A&M Health Dementia & Alzheimer’s Research Initiative (DARI) represents a bold and strategic commitment to advancing research, education and innovation aimed at preventing, detecting and treating neurodegenerative diseases and reducing burdens of care.

Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias affect millions of individuals and families, placing a growing burden on health care systems and communities. As a leading health research institution, Texas A&M Health is uniquely positioned to address this urgent public health challenge by leveraging strengths across disciplines and engaging collaborators across the university and beyond.

Join us for the DARI Workshop on May 7 in College Station. Learn more

The Urgent Need

400,000
Texans are living with Alzheimer’s disease
1 MILLION
caregivers bear the burden of the disease
#3
Texas’ national rank in Alzheimer’s cases
2/3
of Alzheimer’s patients are women

Our Goals

DARI is designed to accelerate progress in brain health research while fostering meaningful engagement and impact. Our core objectives include:

Accelerating breakthrough research

Driving pioneering studies that build on existing efforts, uncover new insights, and advance strategies for prevention, early detection, intervention and education.

Fostering multidisciplinary collaboration

Establishing a robust, cross-disciplinary research network that connects scientists, clinicians, and educators across Texas A&M and external institutions to tackle complex challenges in brain health.

Enhancing research support

Committing $1 million in Texas A&M Health seedling grants to fund high-impact pilot projects that foster innovation in dementia and Alzheimer’s research in preparation for future larger scale funding.

Expanding public awareness and education

Engaging students, educators and community members through outreach, education and advocacy efforts that translate research into meaningful, real-world outcomes.

Initiative Leadership

DARI is guided by a team of distinguished faculty leaders with deep expertise in neuroscience, mental health, aging and public health:

Dr. Israel Liberzon

Dr. Israel Liberzon

Distinguished Professor
College of Medicine
Dr. Israel Liberzon's bio »
Dr. Farida Sohrabji

Dr. Farida Sohrabji

Distinguished Professor
College of Medicine
Dr. Farida Sohrabji's bio »
Dr. Marcia Ory

Dr. Marcia Ory

Distinguished Professor
School of Public Health
Dr. Marcia Ory's bio »

 

Together, they bring a shared commitment to shaping the future of brain health research through collaboration, strategic investment and a strong foundation of scientific excellence.

Opportunities for Engagement

Texas A&M Health is committed to creating opportunities for faculty, students, and community partners to engage in this work. From seed funding and pilot studies to educational outreach and cross-campus collaborations, DARI aims to:

 

  • Connect researchers with shared interests in dementia and brain health.

  • Foster interdisciplinary dialogue and innovation.

  • Translate discoveries into meaningful health outcomes.

 

DARI Workshop — May 7, 2025

Join with colleagues from across Texas A&M to highlight unique strengths and perspectives in addressing the challenge of Alzheimer’s and related dementias.

Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 1:30 PM–5:30 PM, Followed by Reception

Doug Pitcock ’49-Texas A&M Hotel & Conference Center
177 Joe Routt Blvd, College Station, TX 77845
2nd Floor - ROSS ROOM

Parking is available in the Stallings Garage located directly behind the hotel. Skyway to Hotel Entrance on 3rd Floor of Garage. Parking Validation will be provided.

We are asking all interested parties to register, by 5:00 PM on April 23, 2025.

Registration will include the opportunity to share a narrative bio to assist with networking, as well as a one-page research statement that includes: 1) your current work related to dementia research, 2) your proposed innovative research and resources and partnerships needed for success. Presenters will be selected from the submitted research statements to present a one slide “pitch” of your work at the Workshop. Selected presenters will be notified by Wednesday, April 29th.

Contact

For more information about the Dementia & Alzheimer’s Research Initiative, including upcoming events and funding opportunities, email the team.