Craig shares his journey from medical school in Aberdeen to becoming a globally recognized leader in neurodegenerative medicine. He discusses why he left the security of academia to build a startup focused on accelerating breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s research and explains why he believes a cure is closer than many people think.

The conversation also explores the impact of screen time on children, how AI may transform healthcare, the role of genetics in dementia risk, and why entrepreneurship can move faster than traditional institutions when solving major global health challenges.

Key Topics Covered

• The mission behind Scottish Brain Sciences
• Why Craig Ritchie believes Alzheimer’s disease is curable
• The future of brain health and neurodegenerative medicine
• Transitioning from academia to entrepreneurship
• The “triple helix” model: healthcare, universities, and startups working together
• How AI is reshaping medicine and diagnostics
• The dangers of excessive screen time for children
• Genetics and Alzheimer’s disease risk factors
• Why innovation in healthcare often moves too slowly
• The importance of balance, rhythm, and community for brain health
• Craig’s personal morning routine and favorite book recommendations

Notable Quotes

“Research is a means to an end. It’s not an end in itself.”

“A cure for Alzheimer’s is just around the corner, but we have to believe it’s possible.”

“The biggest problems facing society aren’t solved by governments or corporations alone — they’re solved through entrepreneurship.”

“If children are spending all their time on screens, they’re not doing the things that help healthy brain development.”

About Craig Ritchie

Craig Ritchie is a leading expert in Alzheimer’s disease, dementia prevention, and brain health research. Originally from Aberdeen, Scotland, he trained in psychiatry and later worked with renowned Alzheimer’s researcher Colin Masters in Melbourne, Australia.

Today, Craig serves as CEO and founder of Scottish Brain Sciences, a company focused on accelerating clinical research, diagnostics, and therapeutic innovation in neurodegenerative disease.

He also holds academic positions at University of St Andrews and University of Aberdeen.

To learn more about Scottish Brain Sciences: https://brainsciences.scot/who-we-are/team/