The Macular Society has an annual grant application round for research grants and PhD studentships.

We will consider applications for clinical or laboratory-based research projects which can positively impact people with macular disease. This may include research into causes and prevention, early detection, treatments or improving quality of life. Researchers are welcome to submit grant applications to carry out research on any type of macular disease.

We strongly advise researchers to read the Macular Society's new Research Strategy 2020-2030 (see below) and the Guidance for Applicants when preparing their grant applications. We also recommend looking at the Research Impact Report (see below) produced in 2019.

Any queries should be sent to research@macularsociety.org 

Research Grants

Grants of up to £250,000 over three years are available for research at UK institutions only.

Projects can be for the maximum term or for a shorter period (e.g. 2 years), as long as the project is deemed to be good value for money.

PhD Studentships

Studentships of up to £100,000 are available to cover a stipend, fees and consumables over 3 years. PhD students should be based at a UK institution and be a UK graduate in a relevant subject.

There is a two stage application process: 

Stage one – preliminary application 

Preliminary applications are reviewed and shortlisted by the Research Committee. Successful applicants are invited to complete a full application.

Stage two – full application 

Full applications are sent to external reviewers for peer review. The Research Committee then meet to consider the full applications and peer review feedback.

A final decision is made by the Board of Trustees. Applications should be submitted to research@macularsociety.org

Please note: as a charity, we cannot contribute to university overheads.Information on the projects we are currently funding can be found in the Explore our research section.