Yorkshire Macular Degeneration Fund: Meet the Researchers 2026

Our vision is a future where no one loses their sight due to age-related macular degeneration (AMD).

This free annual lecture will take place at the University of York campus. Tea and coffee will be served from 10:00, with the lecture running from 11:00 to 12:30.

The event offers an opportunity to hear directly from leading experts working to advance understanding and treatment of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). AMD remains the leading cause of vision loss in people over 50 in the UK, yet there is still no national screening programme. Improving early detection and access to timely treatment is critical to protecting sight and ensuring equitable care.

Professor Richard Gale will present findings from the DORADO study, alongside Dr Rachel Hanson, who will share insights from the BEAT study, and Oumayma El Anssari, who will introduce the Yor-AMD registry.

Richard Gale is Professor of Ophthalmology at Hull York Medical School, University of York. He is also Honorary Consultant Medical Ophthalmologist at York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. He is an internationally renowned expert in medical diseases of the retina, specialising in age-related macular degeneration (AMD). As a clinician and senior researcher, Richard’s ultimate goal is to enhance the quality of life for those affected by AMD through research that translates into impactful clinical practices. He is also spearheading the Yorkshire Macular Degeneration Fund, a charitable initiative dedicated to improving diagnosis and treatment for AMD, york.ac.uk/amdfund

Dr Rachel Hanson is a clinician and researcher based at York and Scarborough Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. Her work focuses on ophthalmology and improving outcomes for patients with retinal conditions, including age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Dr Hanson has been involved in clinical research studies aimed at advancing understanding of AMD and evaluating new approaches to diagnosis and treatment. She plays a key role in translating research findings into clinical practice, with a focus on delivering evidence-based care that improves patient experience and outcomes.

Ouymayma El Anssari is the Yorkshire Macular Degeneration Fund’s first PhD candidate in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), marking a significant milestone for the Fund. She joined in September as its inaugural PhD Scholar and is undertaking a three-year research project focused on the early detection of AMD. Central to her work is the development of the York AMD patient registry, an initiative designed to improve understanding of disease progression, support earlier diagnosis, and inform future screening strategies. Through this research, Oumayma aims to contribute to more timely interventions and better outcomes for people affected by AMD.

Directions to campus and to our venue will be provided in advance via email.

Please reserve your free ticket through EventBrite. If you have any questions, please get in touch with Sharon Oakley, University of York Philanthropy Manager, on mobile 07795 315 108 or email [email protected]

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