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.
The zebrafish’s high-acuity zone as a novel model for the human macula
Very few animals have a macula but the zebrafish has a macula-like organ. This research will look at whether gene manipulation of these zebrafish cells can create a viable option for future research.
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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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New treatment option for wet AMD
Looking at a new protein for treating those with wet AMD who do not respond to anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (anti-VEGF) drugs.
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