Francesca leads a dedicated line of research on women’s brain health with a particular focus on modifiable factors that influence risk for Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. Her work emphasises the importance of early detection, with a goal of identifying both risk and resilience factors that emerge during key life transitions, such as menopause. She also co-leads the Next Generation Brain Health project, which investigates factors affecting brain health in young adulthood. Beyond research, she collaborates with patient advocacy and community organisations to reduce the fear and stigma surrounding dementia.