The prestigious Queen Elizabeth Prizes for Higher and Further Education, bestowed by the monarch every two years, celebrate world-class excellence across UK institutions. This year marks Newcastle’s second consecutive success, following its 2023 award for water research, and the fifth such honour in the University’s history.
DLB is the second most common form of dementia after Alzheimer’s disease, affecting an estimated 130,000 people in the UK. Symptoms range from memory and judgement problems to movement difficulties, vivid hallucinations and severe sleep disturbances, often placing profound strain on patients and loved ones. Public awareness of the condition increased following the death of actor Robin Williams, whose family later revealed his struggle with the disease.
For more than 30 years, Newcastle researchers have led international efforts to redefine DLB as a distinct and common form of dementia. Their work has shifted global clinical practice, allowing for earlier diagnosis, better management and the promise of more personalised treatment.
Today, the University remains at the forefront of progress, exploring disease mechanisms, creating stem-cell models, developing blood-based diagnostic tests and trialling tailored therapies that may one day allow clinicians to detect and treat DLB far earlier than is currently possible. This long-term progress has been supported by the NIHR Newcastle Biomedical Research Centre, the Newcastle Health Research Partnership, national and international funders and industry collaborators.
Professor John-Paul Taylor, Professor of Translational Dementia Research, said the prize reflects “the significant work and efforts” of the Newcastle team.
“Through close collaboration with patients, clinicians and scientists across the globe, the University’s work has elevated DLB from an overlooked condition to a clearly defined, diagnosable and increasingly treatable disease.
“We are building on this legacy with a vibrant multidisciplinary team that continues to strive to improve diagnosis and care of those affected.”
Professor Chris Day, Vice-Chancellor and President of Newcastle University, said, “This award is a great honour and a testament to the outstanding achievement of our team and the wider University community.
the Prize recognises more than three decades of ground-breaking research and unwavering dedication
“Built on the visionary early work of scientific and clinical pioneers at Newcastle University, the Prize recognises more than three decades of ground-breaking research and unwavering dedication that have significantly advanced the diagnosis and care of individuals and families affected by Dementia with Lewy bodies.
“We are proud that our work is making a difference globally, and we remain committed to building on this world-leading research to further improve diagnosis, treatment, and ensuring healthier ageing for future generations.”
This year’s awards, run by the Royal Anniversary Trust, celebrate 30 years of honouring innovation and public benefit in UK education.
Sir Damon Buffini, Chair of the Trust, praised the transformative impact of education: “This much-loved national honour recognises, at the highest level of state, outstanding work in UK universities and colleges… Congratulations all!”
Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer echoed this sentiment, calling the prizes a reminder of the UK’s long tradition of learning, invention and ambition.
Newcastle University’s previous accolades include awards in 2005, 2009 and 2013 for research ranging from mine water pollution to sustainable rural economies.
Among those who have directly benefited from Newcastle’s research are Nigel Thomas, 79, from Cleadon Village, and his wife Heather, 78. Nigel was diagnosed with DLB and credits the Newcastle team with life-changing support.
“I dread to think what my circumstances would be if we had not met Professor Jean-Paul Taylor and his team,” Nigel said.
“Early intervention with tailored medication has made a remarkable difference. Their sensitivity, consideration and constant enquiry have been invaluable.”
Despite physical changes and challenges with independence, Nigel has retained his lifelong passions, including military history and foreign languages, and recently completed work on an important commission.
Despite physical changes and challenges with independence, Nigel has retained his lifelong passions,
For Heather, the journey has brought a profound shift in identity. “To be defined as a ‘carer’ was a surprise,” she said.
“Nigel’s diagnosis meant he became dependent on me, and I lost much of my independence. But without the support of Newcastle University, he would have required daily or even residential care. Meeting Professor Taylor and his team transformed our lives.”
As Newcastle University celebrates this latest honour, the recognition underscores not only decades of scientific achievement but a legacy that continues to offer hope to families navigating one of the most complex and challenging forms of dementia.