MND-SMART
Transforming MND research through strategic philanthropy
The Alan Davidson Foundation is proud to be a key supporter of MND-SMART, a groundbreaking clinical trial designed to accelerate the search for effective treatments for motor neuron disease (MND). With a visionary grant of £1.275 million, the Foundation has enabled the launch of the Davidson Nurses Programme—a national initiative expanding access to clinical trials and bringing hope to people living with MND across the UK.
About MND-SMART
Led by the Euan MacDonald Centre for MND Research at the University of Edinburgh, MND-SMART is a first-of-its-kind adaptive, multi-arm clinical trial. Unlike traditional studies, it tests multiple drugs simultaneously and adapts as results emerge—allowing ineffective treatments to be dropped and promising ones to advance quickly. This innovative design dramatically shortens the time it takes to bring effective treatments to patients. Crucially, MND-SMART is built around accessibility. From liquid formulations for easier swallowing to virtual appointments, every element has been developed in consultation with people living with MND.
We are continuously striving to improve equity of access to trials for people with MND regardless of location, socio-economic status, or ethnicity. We are incredibly grateful for this far sighted investment in MND SMART from the Alan Davidson Foundation and look forward to working closely together to open several new sites across the UK including in areas where MND trials have not been available before.”
Professor Suvankar Pal, co-Lead of MND-SMART
Davidson Nurses Programme: Bridging the gap
Recognising that access to research should not be determined by postcode, the Alan Davidson Foundation partnered with MND-SMART to create the Davidson Nurses Programme—a network of five regional recruitment hubs across the UK. This initiative is designed to reduce the geographic, logistical, and systemic barriers that too often prevent people from participating in clinical research. Launched in 2024 and celebrated at Edinburgh’s historic Old Royal Infirmary at a special event in February 2025, the programme has already begun to transform access to MND trials.
A legacy of compassion and innovation
The Davidson Nurses Programme reflects the enduring legacy of Alan Davidson, the programme also honours Alan’s mother, who was a nurse, by putting compassionate care at the forefront of research. Jane Craik, Alan’s sister and Foundation Trustee, shared his story at the launch event, underscoring the family’s commitment to meaningful, patient-focused philanthropy.
