PhD in Vision Sciences: High fidelity imaging densitometry, exploring the relationship between visual pigment kinetics, choroidal vasculature and sub-retinal drusenoid deposits in age-related macular degeneration

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 AMD, and is a sensitive sign of the condition, but it is not known how the process is affected by common clinical signs and features of AMD, such as sub-retinal drusenoid deposits. IRD for the first time can map differences across the retina, our preliminary data suggests reduced pigment regeneration overlying choroidal vascular thinning. In this PhD, you will develop and apply imaging analysis techniques to investigate the relationship between visual pigment kinetics, the choroidal vasculature (imaged using angio-optical coherence tomography) and sub-retinal drusenoid deposits in participants with Age-related macular degeneration. Understanding the relationship between choroidal vasculature and outer retinal function will address a key gap in our current understanding of early stage AMD pathobiology, this work is expected to improve disease monitoring and inform the targeting of potential future therapeutics.

Applicants must have at least a BSc 2.1 Hons degree (or equivalent) in a Biology/Physics related science, or a Medicine related field.

To apply, please follow the application link and complete the requested information on the left-hand side before proceeding.

In the research proposal section of your application, please specify the project title and supervisors of this project and copy the project description in the text box provided. In the funding section, please select "I will be applying for a scholarship / grant" and specify that you are applying for advertised funding from the Macular Society. A CV, personal statement, and cover letter must be uploaded as part of your application.

The start date for the project is 1st October 2020.

*we reserve the right to close applications early should sufficient applications be received*