Manchester Made: Dr. Sasha Philbert

As the AJ Bell Great Manchester Run returns to the city streets on 31 May, we’re celebrating the incredible Manchester Made participants which make the event what it is, each with their own story, reflecting the rich history, diversity and spirit of the city.

Meet Dr. Sasha Philbert, 32, who is set to take on this year’s Great Manchester Run 10k for the first time, alongside colleagues from the University of Manchester to raise money for Alzheimer’s Society, the chosen charity of AJ Bell.

Originally from London, Sasha moved to Manchester for work eight years ago and hasn’t looked back, drawn in by the city’s diverse culture and vibrant food scene, particularly in the Northern Quarter.

As an Alzheimer’s Society Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Manchester, he’s chosen to participate in the Great Manchester Run 10k to give back to the charity that supports his researchexploring how sodium and energy metabolism affect vascular cognitive impairment – research that could help shape future treatments:

“Every step l take and every pound l raise will help Alzheimer’s Society. Around a million people are living with a form of dementia in the UK today and this number is expected to rise to 1.4m by 2040.

“Donations that Alzheimer’s Society invests into dementia research enable scientists like me to advance our knowledge of the diseases that cause dementia and help develop treatments and approaches for people living with the condition.

Sasha’s work is rooted in personal experience, after his grandmother was diagnosed with vascular dementia:

“My nan’s experience continues to inspire my work to push research forward and bring hope to all families facing dementia.”

For Sasha, taking part in the Great Manchester Run is about supporting the research and care that make a real difference to families affected by dementia like his own.

While Sasha admits that he’s not a big runner, he does cycle up to 90k a week, and is hoping that his cycling fitness translates to running.

His goal is to complete the course in under 44 minutes.

For anyone considering taking part, Sasha says, “Do it! Taking part for a cause or charity that has personal meaning is great motivation – but even if you’re not fundraising, it gives you a training goal.”

There are limited AJ Bell Great Manchester Run 10k places remaining for this year, but they are selling fast. Find out more and sign up here.