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.
Using data science to diagnose AMD sooner and detect change over time
Using data from thousands of patients. Researchers want to better understand the factors involved in the development of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
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Using technology to aid functional vision
Changing how images are displayed to improve reading speed, face recognition and fine detail vision
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Helping keep mitochondria healthy to keep macula cells alive
Investigating molecules involved in energy production and inflammation to see whether they can slow or stop damage to cells of the macula.
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Manchester Eye Tissue Repository Genome-Transcriptome Project
Investigating the gene changes that are responsible for macular dystrophies to improve genetic diagnosis and find new treatment options
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Creating a wet AMD drug using flower compounds
Creating and testing compounds found in rare flowers, in the hope of finding a new drug for wet AMD for people that don’t respond to current treatments.
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How genetic mutations in ABCA4 cause sight loss
Understanding how and why genetic mutations in the ABCA4 gene cause sight loss
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