Launched in 2016, the UK DRI, has received significant investment from three founding partners: Medical Research Council; Alzheimer’s Society; and Alzheimer’s Research UK. It employs world-leading academics, whose work is helping benefit the lives of millions of people living with dementia now and in the future.  

The £40 million funding, announced today will be used to help develop a new £250m building at UCL, which will host the central hub of UK DRI, alongside the university’s world-class Institute of Neurology.

UCL President & Provost Professor Michael Arthur said: “Understanding the causes of dementia and discovering potential treatments, is a huge priority for UCL, and we were delighted to be chosen as the hub university for the UK Dementia Research Institute in 2016.
“The UK DRI is bringing together world leading researchers and cutting edge technology, and constructing a high class bespoke facility is critical to the Institute’s future success.
“We are delighted with the Government’s £40m investment, which combined with the substantial financial commitments of UCL and our key partners, will help create a world-class facility alongside the Institute of Neurology, helping shape the future of dementia research for decades to come.”

The new building will be part of large redevelopment at the Eastman Dental Hospital, Gray’s Inn Road, London, which UCLH has agreed to sell to UCL. The redevelopment will start in 2019 when the hospital moves to a new facility.

Marcel Levi, CEO of UCLH, said: “We are delighted that the Eastman Dental Hospital will be redeveloped into a world leading centre. The investment from the Government is fantastic news and will mean that further progress can be made in our understanding and treatment of dementia.”

Dr Rob Buckle, Chief Science Officer at the Medical Research Council, added:

“Developing the UK Dementia Research Institute hub in partnership with UCL will bring tremendous benefits for science and for health. The new building will provide state-of-the-art facilities for research and the testing of new dementia therapies, and will be located alongside neurology clinics and have a dedicated space for engaging dementia patients and their families and carers.”

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  • Artist's impression of proposed redevelopment of Eastman Dental Hospital. Credit: UCL