Our research projects
Since 1987 the Macular Society has invested around £10 million in over 100 research projects. Each year we invite applications for research grants, PhD studentships and seedcorn grants which are assessed by our Research Committee.
Research grants
Research grants are for projects of up to three years duration and up to £300,000, which covers everything from laboratory chemicals to salaries.
PhD studentships
A PhD studentship funds a student to undertake a three year research project. The student submits a thesis for qualification of the degree, which is the highest level of academic degree attainable.
Seedcorn projects
A seedcorn grant is funding of up to £25,000 to generate preliminary data to advance innovative and novel ideas.
Fellowships
A fellowship is an award that provides funding for individuals to pursue research, study, training, or professional development.
Creating a new laboratory macular model
This project will investigate the potentially important genes that need to be switched on early in pregnancy for the macula to form. It will look into precisely when and in which cells they are switched on and give us an understanding of how the macula is made. This is key for identifying what can go wrong and to provide clues about designing effective treatment strategies.
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RNA-targeted therapy in Stargardt disease
This project explores a cutting-edge RNA-based therapy to treat Stargardt disease by selectively removing harmful genetic messages before they cause damage.
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Modelling metabolic dysfunction in AMD
Dr Paul Roberts at City St George’s, University of London explores a new approach to understanding retinal disease by using mathematical modelling. By simulating how the retina uses nutrients and removes waste, the research aims to provide insights that are difficult to obtain through traditional experiments alone.
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Investigating protein interactions in Doyne’s honeycomb retinal dystrophy and AMD
This project investigates how excess EFEMP1 protein disrupts blood vessel stability in wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and Doyne’s honeycomb retinal dystrophy. By testing existing drugs to block this interaction, the team aims to identify treatments that could be repurposed to prevent abnormal blood vessel growth and protect vision.
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