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.
Measuring visual pigment regeneration to track Stargardt progression
Researchers at Cardiff University are using a novel imaging technique, Imaging Retinal Densitometry (IRD), to track how the retina’s light-sensitive cells regenerate. This study aims to better understand Stargardt disease progression and support the development of new treatments by providing an objective measure of retinal function over time.
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Shining new light on the body clock and retinopathy
Disruptions to our body clock can have an impact on our health, including links with eye damage for people living with diabetes. Dr Eleni Beli takes a closer look at these links, to understand more about how eye damage can develop and progress. Her research could uncover an innovative new approach to help people with diabetes avoid sight loss.
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A marvellous new approach to tackle retinopathy
High blood sugar levels can lead to damage to our eyes, known as retinopathy. Professor Karl Matter's research could provide valuable new insights to develop innovative approaches to protect blood vessels and prevent sight loss for people with diabetes.
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Switching off the genes that cause Best disease
Using new gene editing technique to turn off the faulty gene that causes vision loss in Best disease.
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An implantable eye lens for macular disease
Magnifying intraocular lenses can be given to patients with macular disease. This will be the first trial to see if they help.
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Turning off faulty genes to treat macular dystrophy
New research using antisense oligonucleotide gene therapy to treat Doyne honeycomb dystrophy, a dominant genetic macular disease.
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