Researcher in the News

This award is the highest honor given by the VHA Office of Research and Development for outstanding achievement in clinical science research.  The John B. Barnwell Award recognizes senior VHA investigators whose sustained contributions in research lead to better evaluation and/or treatment of conditions that are of particular importance to Veterans.

The award cited Dr. Yaffe for her significant contributions as a scientific leader in the field of Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias, as well as exemplary record in service to the VA, creating and directing SFVAHCS’ Memory Evaluation Clinic, and mentoring scientists who have become leaders in dementia research. She is the first woman to receive the Barnwell Award.

In selecting Dr. Yaffe as the recipient, VA Chief Research and Development Officer Rachel B. Ramoni, DMD, ScD, said, “She is considered an international leader in the epidemiology of dementia by experts in the field. With an H-index of 152 and more than 600 peer-reviewed articles, Dr. Yaffe’s research has had significant impact in dementia research.”

Dr. Yaffe researches the risk and resilience factors for cognitive and brain health. Of particular importance to the VA Mission is her work on how military-related actors such as  PTSD and TBI[YK1]  may affect dementia risk. Her research also investigates health disparities and their underpinnings among Veterans with dementia and using “big data” to study several neurologic outcomes.  

To honor Dr. Yaffe’s achievement, she will receive $50,000 per year for three years in research support, an announcement of her award in a prestigious scientific journal, a cash award of $5,000, and an inscribed plaque commemorating her scientific achievements.  The Office of Research and Development of the VA hopes to present the plaque at an in person celebration in the future.