DRATgons’ Den 2026 is an interactive knowledge exchange event designed to strengthen dementia research in Ireland by placing lived experience at the heart of research development. Inspired by the TV show Dragons’ Den and building on the success of the inaugural 2025 event, it will bring together Early Career Researchers (ECRs), people living with dementia, family carers, Patient and Public Involvement (PPI) representatives, and experienced academics. The event is designed and coordinated by members of The Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s expert PPI panel, the Dementia Research Advisory Team (DRAT).
The event provides ECRs with a supportive, constructive platform to present their research directly to a panel of people with lived experience of dementia (the “DRATgons”), alongside academic experts. The best presentation will receive a €3000 funding prize, with a runner up €500 Travel and Conference bursary. Researchers will receive structured feedback on the clarity, relevance, and real-world impact of their work. This interactive format strengthens communication skills while ensuring research priorities reflect that which matters most to people affected by dementia.
DRATgons’ Den moves beyond consultation by creating genuine dialogue where lived experience actively shapes research thinking. It supports Ireland’s future dementia research leaders by fostering confidence, collaboration, and public engagement skills at an early career stage.
Open to PhD and MSc researchers, the target audience includes ECRs in dementia-related fields nationwide, people affected by dementia, PPI contributors, academic mentors, and national organisation representatives.
Outcomes will be disseminated through
- a post-event report,
- summary learning resources (including video),
- social media,
- organisational newsletters,
- and professional networks.
Key insights on effective PPI and researcher development will inform future training and engagement activities, ensuring the impact of DRATgons’ Den 2026 extends well beyond the event itself.