New Eye Treatments for Childhood Blindness and Inherited Retinal Disease
The project
This research project aims to develop a new eye treatment approach for inherited retinal diseases (IRDs), a group of genetic eye conditions that can lead to progressive vision loss and blindness in children and adults.
A research team at Curtin University is working on developing a targeted eye gel/drop system designed to improve delivery of treatment to the retina at the back of the eye. Current treatment options for many inherited retinal diseases remain limited, and there is a strong need for safer, less invasive, and more effective therapies.
The project focuses not only on scientific development, but also on understanding the real-world needs, concerns, and priorities of individuals and families affected by vision loss. Consumer and community involvement will help guide the research to ensure it remains meaningful, practical, and relevant to patients and carers.
The involvement opportunity
The team are seeking 4-6 people to join a Consumer Advisory Group for this research project.
They would like to hear from:
- parents of children with inherited retinal disease
adults living with inherited retinal disease or vision impairment - carers and family members of people living with inherited retinal disease or vision impairment
- representatives from vision impairment or blindness advocacy groups
Members will provide feedback and advice on areas such as:
- research priorities and patient needs acceptability and practicality of future treatments
- communication and plain-language materials
- consumer perspectives on research direction and translation
- community engagement and awareness
No scientific background is required.
Skills and experience
The team are looking for people with lived experience or community experience related to inherited retinal disease, childhood blindness, or vision impairment.
This may include:
- living with an inherited retinal disease
- caring for a child or family member with vision loss
- advocacy or community involvement in the vision impairment sector
- interest in improving future treatment options and research outcomes
The team value diverse perspectives and encourage participation from people with different backgrounds and experiences.
Other information
Meetings will be held approximately every six months. Each meeting is expected to run for approximately 1–2 hours. The overall commitment is expected to be low and flexible, with opportunities for additional feedback between meetings if members wish to participate.
Meetings will be held online or in-person at the Curtin Bentley campus.
An honorarium payment of $37.50 per hour is offered.
Support and guidance will be provided to all members.
Applications close 26 June 2026