Dementia & Alzheimer's Research Initiative (DARI) Seedling Grant Program is sponsored by Texas A&M University Health Science Center. This opportunity supports mission-aligned projects and measurable outcomes.

Dementia & Alzheimer’s Research Initiative (DARI) | Health Dementia & Alzheimer’s Research Initiative (DARI) The Texas A&M Health Dementia & Alzheimer’s Research Initiative (DARI) represents a bold and strategic commitment to advancing research, education and innovation. These efforts focus on preventing, detecting and treating neurodegenerative diseases.

Texans are living with Alzheimer’s disease Texas Department of State Health Services caregivers bear the burden of the disease Texas Department of State Health Services Texas’ national rank in Alzheimer’s cases Texas Department of State Health Services of Alzheimer’s patients are women Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias affect millions of individuals and families, placing a growing burden on health care systems and communities.

As a leading health research institution, Texas A&M Health is uniquely positioned to address this urgent public health challenge by leveraging strengths across disciplines and engaging collaborators across the university and beyond. DARI is designed to accelerate progress in brain health research while fostering meaningful engagement and impact.

Our core objectives include: Accelerating breakthrough research Driving pioneering studies that build on existing efforts, uncover new insights, and advance strategies for prevention, early detection, intervention and education.

Fostering multidisciplinary collaboration Establishing a robust, cross-disciplinary research network that connects scientists, clinicians, and educators across Texas A&M and external institutions to tackle complex challenges in brain health. Enhancing research support Committing $1 million in Texas A&M Health seedling grants to fund high-impact pilot projects that foster innovation in dementia and Alzheimer’s research.

Expanding public awareness and education Engaging students, educators and community members through outreach, education and advocacy efforts that translate research into meaningful, real-world outcomes. DARI is guided by a team of distinguished faculty leaders with deep expertise in neuroscience, mental health, aging and public health.

Together, they bring a shared commitment to shaping the future of brain health research through collaboration, strategic investment and a strong foundation of scientific excellence.

University Distinguished Professor William and Dorothy Stearman Professor Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences University Distinguished and Regent's Professor John and Maurine Cox Endowed Chair Department Head, Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics Neuroscience and Experimental Therapeutics Regents and Distinguished Professor Environmental & Occupational Health|Center for Community Health & Aging Inaugural 2026 DARI Seedling Grant Awardees Through DARI, Texas A&M has awarded $1.

325 million to support 11 multidisciplinary research projects focused on improving brain health and accelerating innovation in Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. View 2026 DARI seedling grant awardees Opportunities for Engagement Texas A&M Health is committed to creating opportunities for faculty, students and community partners to engage in this work.

From seed funding and pilot studies to educational outreach and cross-campus collaborations, DARI aims to: Connect researchers with shared interests in dementia and brain health. Foster interdisciplinary dialogue and innovation. Translate discoveries into meaningful health outcomes.

Changing the Course of Dementia Read stories about how the Dementia and Alzheimer’s Research Initiative is advancing research, care and understanding.