Gregory A. Jicha: 2024-25 University Research Professor Q&A

Gregory A. Jicha, M.D., Ph.D., a professor and vice chair for academic affairs in the Department of Neurology in the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, associate director of the Sanders-Brown Center on Aging and the Robert T. & Nyles Y. McCowan Endowed Chair in Alzheimer’s Research at UK, has been honored as a 2024-25 University Research Professor.

Jicha also serves as the director of the Clinical Core of the UK Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, funded by the National Institute on Aging, and is the founder and director of the UK Telemedicine Cognitive Clinic. He joined UK in 2005.

In summing up his research, Jicha said he investigates ways to unlock the secrets of healthy brain aging that can be made possible for all. He and his research team are working to develop new treatments for those affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related disorders — most notably the FDA-approved drug lecanemab.

Jicha spoke with UKNow about his latest honor as a University Research Professor in this Q&A.

UKNow: What does it mean to you to be recognized as a University Research Professor?

Jicha: Recognition as a valuable member of the UK research community through the University Research Professorship is important. More importantly is the recognition that I am helping thousands of Kentuckians meet the challenges of fighting back against Alzheimer’s and related dementias through meaningful contributions in the area of research that is focused on improving their care.

UKNow: How will the professorships program advance your research?

Jicha: Recognition as a University Research Professor increases awareness of the diseases I study, those I help and importantly draws in other faculty members that can contribute meaningfully to address cognitive decline in aging.

UKNow: How does your research address challenges facing Kentucky?

Jicha: Over 70,000 Kentuckians have Alzheimer’s disease or related disorders, and another 70,000 are estimated to have mild cognitive impairment. This is a scourge that robs many of their “golden years” and distracts family and loved ones from contributing to the overall productivity of the Commonwealth. Our aging population is steadily growing, and we need to focus on this vulnerable segment of the population. They have given much, and it is our time to give back!

UKNow: What impact will your research have on Kentucky?

Jicha: We have been instrumental in increasing awareness of newly recognized forms of dementia as well as the importance of mixed pathologies that make care of the elderly complex. Our work has opened many doors to new care strategies and new areas of research that allow UK to remain a leading force globally in the fight for normal healthy brain aging.

The research I have been involved with at UK that has led to this honor, has stimulated many to pursue careers focused on helping the aging population here in Kentucky and abroad, has provided hope for aging Kentuckians and has brought millions of dollars from outside the state right here to Kentucky where we need it most to make sure every Kentuckian’s “golden years” are truly golden!

About the University Research Professors

Each year, the University of Kentucky Board of Trustees approves a cohort of faculty as University Research Professors. The distinction recognizes excellence in work that addresses scientific, social, cultural and economic challenges in Kentucky and the world.



College leadership developed criteria for excellence within their area of expertise and then nominated faculty who excelled at these criteria. Each University Research Professor receives a one-year award of $10,000 and participates in other events planned around the program.