Professor Raj N. Kalaria is a distinguished academic neuropathologist and research-trained neuroepidemiologist at Newcastle University, where he holds the position of Professor of Cerebrovascular Pathology since his appointment to a personal chair in 1997. He serves as Head of the Neurovascular Research Group within the Translational and Clinical Research Institute and has established himself as a leading authority in cerebrovascular pathology over his distinguished career. Previously, he served as Chairman of the International Society for Vascular Behavioural and Cognitive Disorders and coordinated the Newcastle NE ARUK Network Centre for Alzheimer's Research UK. His scholarly leadership extends internationally through his adjunct professorship at the University of Nairobi's Department of Human Anatomy since 2019, reflecting his commitment to global neuroscience collaboration and capacity building.
Professor Kalaria's seminal research focuses on the neuropathology and neuroepidemiology of cerebrovascular diseases, particularly vascular dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and post-stroke cognitive impairment. He pioneered and led the landmark MRC-funded Newcastle Cognitive Function After Stroke (CogFAST) Longitudinal Study from 2000 to 2015, which has significantly advanced understanding of cognitive decline following stroke events across diverse populations. His groundbreaking investigations into CADASIL and small vessel diseases of the brain have provided critical insights into the mechanisms linking cerebrovascular pathology with neurodegenerative conditions. With extensive mentorship experience, he has supervised 15 PhD/MD students and 40 MRes/MSci students over the past two years alone, fostering the next generation of researchers in cerebrovascular neuroscience and dementia studies.
Recognized for his exceptional contributions to medical science, Professor Kalaria serves in prestigious roles including Chair of Networking Grants for the Academy of Medical Sciences and membership on review panels for the Academy of Finland and Canadian Excellence Research Chairs program. As Deputy Director of the Newcastle Brain Ageing and Vitality Centre at the Institute for Ageing and Vitality, he plays a pivotal role in shaping dementia research strategy and promoting interdisciplinary approaches to brain health in aging populations. His current research continues to explore the complex interplay between cerebrovascular pathology and cognitive decline, with recent work on NOTCH3-associated small vessel disease published in JAMA Neurology demonstrating his ongoing scholarly productivity. Professor Kalaria's enduring influence extends through his leadership in international collaborations, editorial contributions, and sustained commitment to translating neuropathological findings into clinical understanding that benefits patients worldwide.
