Coming soon: Collaborative PhD opportunities that could transform vision research
In April, Fight for Sight will be launching a new, exciting Doctoral Training Programme (DTP). The programme is aiming to harness collaboration to deepen our understanding of the molecular and cellular basis of retinal degeneration, a leading cause of vision loss and blindness.
Despite possessing outstanding talent, the UK landscape for vision researchers is fragmented.
That’s why we’ve worked with experts across the field to create the UK Vision Research Network (UKVRN). This programme is the first step in the creation of this collaborative, multi-disciplinary network focused on vision research with translational potential. We are therefore asking researchers to co-apply with a researcher from a different UK organisation and discipline to co-supervise the doctoral student selected for their project.
FAQs
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What is the UK Vision Research Network?
We have identified the need for the creation of a network of researchers, connected by their determination to pursue innovative approaches to the biggest challenges in vision research. Our Doctoral Training Programme (DTP) is just the first step in this network; in the future we hope to launch additional grants on other themes. Our intention is that the high quality, collaborative nature of the research by the network will attract onward funding.
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How will this collaboration benefit students?
Working with experts from across the UK, we have designed this programme to maximise opportunities for collaboration. Students will join a virtual network to create a dedicated cohort united by a shared goal: to accelerate progress together.
Each student will be required to have a co-supervisor based at a different academic institution within the UK. To broaden their knowledge and exposure to diverse research environments and techniques, students will be encouraged to spend up to 50% of their time with their co-supervisor at the non-host organisation. Being part of this network will also offer students an unrivalled opportunity to develop their careers, find support and benefit from advice and training in essential aspects of a research career.
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Why is this grant focussing on retinal degeneration?
Conditions linked to retinal degeneration are increasing in prevalence due to an ageing population; it’s estimated that ~288 million people globally will have AMD by 2040 (the leading cause of registered blindness). Without significant changes to the landscape for vision research, we risk limiting the early-stage breakthroughs essential for translational and clinical progress.
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Can I apply before April?
Applications to the programme will open in April but we’d be delighted to hear from you before then if you are a researcher who is keen to connect with colleagues in other institutions or disciplines to make an application to the programme. We are excited about the potential of the programme and would also be keen to hear from funders who would like to discuss the potential for co-funding, or sponsoring elements of the programme.
Key Information
- Funding: Up to £163,000 for London based host-organisations or £155,000 (elsewhere in the UK)*
- Duration: 4 years
- Eligibility: Supervisors must come from two different UK academic or medical institutions
- Call opens: April 2025
- Call closes: June 2025
- Expected outcome: December 2025
- Project to start: No later than October 2026
*Funding includes a £20,000 budget to support travel and additional accommodation costs to support research at the co-supervisory site.
Please note dates may be adjusted pending the official launch of the grant call. Please check the page after the official launch which is scheduled for April.
This call is in addition to Fight for Sight’s standard PhD call, which will open in April 2025 as usual.
Any questions?
You can contact our scientific research team with your questions or for support by email.
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The opportunity
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FAQs
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Key information
- The opportunity
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- Key information