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.

Professor Mike Cheetham and team

Folding correction for Stargardt disease

Stargardt disease is often caused by mutations in a gene called ABCA4. Mutations cause the ABCA4 protein produced to fold incorrectly and be removed from the cell. This project looks at correcting the folding of the ABCA4 protein, to maintain the function and health of the macula.

Find out more

eye test clinic, woman looking at eye scans

Finding early AMD changes using eye scans

Using long-term follow-up eye scans from a study into ageing, to understand what changes in scans may be early signs of AMD.

Find out more

Scan of eye

Maintaining the health of the blood vessels in the macula

Understanding how the blood vessels in the macula may play a role in AMD, and trying to find a treatment to maintain their health.

Find out more

Alarm clock on desk with sunlight shining down

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.

Find out more

Diabetes patient with doctor

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.

Find out more

Pearse Keane looking into a microscope

Using Artificial Intelligence to predict AMD progression

Using a new artificial intelligence programme to understand the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

Find out more