Department of Eye and Vision Science

The Department of Eye and Vision Science in the Institute of Life Course and Medical Sciences is working to transform our understanding of the eye and the process of ‘seeing’.

Scientists, engineers and clinicians work from cornea to cortex, and from bench to bedside, to uncover how basic mechanisms, processes and structures relate to vision. Then we investigate how these are affected by ageing and disease. This work is having life-changing results for patients of all ages right across the globe.

The diseases we study are extensive, but focus on chronic, common and sight-threatening conditions affecting the eye and related structures. We are seeking improved methods of disease prevention and early detection, with new treatment and modes of delivery.

The cutting-edge facilities in the University of Liverpool’s new William Henry Duncan Building provide a state-of-the-art hub in which our clinical and non-clinical scientists carry out their research. Our translational research is facilitated and enhanced by our close links with St Paul’s Eye Unit and the Clinical Eye Research Centre, both part of the Liverpool University Hospital Foundation Trust.

Our challenges

Ophthalmic imaging and in-silico analysis for diagnosis and prognostic modelling

Utilising Machine Learning, advanced imaging techniques and pattern recognition to devlop new processes for analysing and diagnosing ophthalmic conditions.
Ophthalmic drug delivery

Developing novel, biomaterial-based ocular drug delivery systems and models (in-vitro and in-silico) to improve the efficacy of ophthalmic drug treatments.
Ophthalmic tissue engineering and regenerative medicine

Utilising advanced materials and processes to develop clinical diagnosis and the delivery of treatments for ocular conditions.
Ophthalmic inflammation, scarring and wound repair

Developing a greater understanding of cellular behaviour, as well as identifiying new targets and potential new mechanisms to develop treatments for a variety of ophthalmic conditions and injuries.
Ocular infection

Developing research into the eye microbiome to develop better procedures for analysing and treating ocular infection.
Vision science

Wide-reaching research into various aspects of vision including neurophysiology, visuomotor behaviour, and cognitive processing; to aid in developing a better understanding and potential treatment for a range of ophthalmic conditions.
Inherited ocular disorders

Producing high-level research to better understand and develop treatments for inherited ocular disorders that are among the leading causes for blindness.
Global ophthalmology challenges

Tackling the challenge of detection, prevention and treatment of ophthalmic disease worldwide. Establishing global partnerships to improve eye health and treatment in developing nations.
Ocular Oncology

High-quality basic, translational and clinical research is undertaken into the pathogenesis and treatment of adult ocular tumours to improve patient care and survival.

Research centres

St Paul's Eye Research Foundation

Based in the Royal Liverpool University Hospital, St Paul's Eye Unit provide a world renowned ophthalmic service, dealing with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of diseases of the eye and visual system, not only to the community of Liverpool, but to regional, national and international referrals.

researchers working at microscope with synthetic eye in the foreground

Liverpool Research Eye Biobank

The Liverpool Research Eye Biobank (LREB), is a tissue collection and storage resource, based in the University of Liverpool. We provide eye and vision science researchers with the material they need to advance clinical and scientific understanding, with the goal of improving treatment for disease.

digitally generated image of an eye for LOORG site

Liverpool Ocular Oncology Research Group

Conducting high quality basic, translational, and clinical research into the pathogenesis and treatment of adult ocular tumours that will improve patient care and survival.

Liverpool Eye Data Platform

Optimising digital health data to improve care and efficiency of operations in clinical settings. Working in collaboration with the NHS to better interpret big data sets.