Our research strategy

Research Strategy 2020 – 2030

We are one of the only sight loss charities in the UK that actively funds and drives research into macular disease. Every year, more people lose their sight to conditions like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). As vision deteriorates, many experience frustration, fear, grief and isolation — and urgently need hope for the future.

Our members tell us how hopeful they are that a cure will be found, to spare them and their children from the threat of blindness. That’s why, we've set a bold ambition: to Beat Macular Disease. Funding world-leading research is crucial to making that happen.

Our research goals

Our Research Strategy outlines six major goals guiding our funding priorities in the next ten years. Together, they shape how we will accelerate progress toward earlier diagnosis, better treatments and, ultimately, a cure for macular disease.

1. Fund world-class research

We support high-quality scientific and clinical research that advances understanding of macular disease and leads to new treatments and technologies that can directly benefit patients.

2. Create new opportunities to speed up progress

We invest in innovative funding schemes designed to accelerate breakthroughs — helping promising ideas reach patients faster.

3. Build UK research capacity

We nurture the next generation of experts through PhD studentships and research fellowships, strengthening the UK’s leadership in macular disease research.

4. Improve quality of life

We fund research that helps us better support people living with macular disease, shaping our services, tools and campaigns.

5. Build strong partnerships

We work collaboratively with charities, research funders and patient organisations to Beat Macular Disease together.

6. Strengthen communication and involvement

We bring together researchers, clinicians and people with macular disease to share knowledge and ensure patient voices guide the direction of future research.

To explore how we will achieve these goals, download our Research Strategy below.

To see the difference our funded work has made over the past 30 years, take a look at our Research Impact Report.