In Memoriam: Dr. Leon Thal

We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of an incredible scientific leader and recent appointee to the Alzheimer’s Association’s National Board of Directors.

Dr. Leon J. Thal, a Cardiff neuroscientist and international pioneer in Alzheimer's disease, was an extraordinary addition to our board of Alzheimer advocates after serving as part of the Association’s Medical and Scientific Advisory Board from 1995 to 1997.

Dr. Thal was one of the world's principal authorities in the development of new therapies for Alzheimer's. He directed the Alzheimer's Disease Cooperative Study, a consortium of more than 90 research centers in the United States and Canada that investigates experimental therapies. He also managed the Shiley-Marcos Alzheimer's Disease Research Center out of the University of California San Diego (UCSD).

Dr. Thal’s contributions to the understanding and treatment of Alzheimer’s are unrivaled. We’ve lost a brilliant scientific mind and a gifted leader — a man whose ability to bring the scientific community together changed the course of Alzheimer research. As an esteemed colleague and Alzheimer's advocate his presence and contributions will be sorely missed.

—    Harry Johns, CEO, Alzheimer's Association

Related article:
Pioneering Alzheimer's scientist at UCSD dies
— Union-Tribune