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 £250,000, 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.
How the genetics of fat metabolism influence AMD development
Establishing the link between the Apolipoprotein E gene and lipid (fat) metabolism and learning what effect this has on the development of AMD.
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Investigating the genetic roots of hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) retinopathy
Investigating why some hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) users develop retinopathy but others don’t, to improve outcomes for screening those prescribed HCQ.
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Using Artificial Intelligence to predict AMD progression
New AI programme to understand the development of AMD and the progression of wet AMD.
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Creating a blood test to detect early AMD
Understanding how AMD cells communicate and if this can be detected in blood samples.
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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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A virtual VI rehabilitation assistant
Professor Dickinson is looking to create a ‘chat-bot’ to help answer patients’ questions about their macular disease or living with sight loss.
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