PhD in vision sciences: Exploring the relationship between visual pigment kinetics and age related macular degeneration and pathology

Using technology more usually found in the field of astronomy, we have developed a ground-breaking functional imaging technique known as Imaging Retinal Densitometry (IRD) that can probe outer retinal function in unprecedented detail.

The technology directly measures the regeneration of the light-sensitive visual pigments within the outer retina. This regeneration process, known as the visual cycle, is essential for vision and dictates the rate at which the eye can adapt to darkness. This process is known to be impaired in Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD), and is a sensitive sign of the condition, but it is not known how the process is affected by common clinical signs of AMD such as drusen. IRD for the first time can map differences across the retina.

In this PhD, you will develop and apply imaging analysis techniques to investigate the relationship between visual pigment kinetics and clinically visible AMD lesions from photography and Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). Understanding the relationship between clinically visible signs of AMD and IRD measures of outer-retinal function is expected to improve disease monitoring and help inform risk of progression.

How to apply:

Consideration is automatic upon application for admission to the Doctor of Philosophy in Vision Sciences with a January 2020 start date: https://www.cardiff.ac.uk/study/postgraduate/research/programmes/programme/vision-sciences-phd

A CV, personal statement, and cover letter must be uploaded as part of your application.

In the "Research proposal and Funding" section of your online application, please specify the project title and supervisors of this project and copy the project description in the text box provided.

Please select “No, I am not self-funding my research” when asked whether you are self-funding your research.

Please add ‘PhD in Vision Sciences: exploring the relationship between visual pigment kinetics and age-related macular degeneration (AMD) pathology’ when asked "Please provide the name of the funding you are applying for".

Applicants must have at least a BSc 2.1 Hons degree (or equivalent) in Optometry, and be a Member/Fellow of the College of Optometrists (MCOptom/FCOptom) by the start date and for the duration of the PhD.