Professor Andrew Dick, Director of the Institute of Ophthalmology and Co Director of our NIHR BRC Moorfields welcomed Professor Uwe Wolfrum to give the Annual Lecture as a highlight of the Institute of Ophthalmology celebration week 2026 . He emphasised Prof. Wolfrum stands out as one of the most influential figures in contemporary sensory‑cell biology, known for his brilliant ability to interrogate cellular mechanisms and see straight through complexity to the underlying logic of disease.
As head of the Wolfrum Lab at Johannes Gutenberg University Mainz, Prof. Wolfrum’s work has transformed the worlds understanding of Usher syndrome, particularly the retinal pathomechanisms (biological and physical processes that lead to the development, progression, and symptoms of diseases) that drive vision loss.
Beginning his career studying sensory cilia in insects, he recognised the deep structural parallels between these systems and the light sensing cells, cones and rods or photoreceptors in the retina, this connection led to pioneering discoveries in retinal ciliopathies (any genetic disease caused by structural or functional defects in cellular cilia).
His work uses a combination of:
- Molecular biology –biological activity within and between cells
- proteomics (how proteins are produced in the body
- Advanced microscopy – using lasers, computers and electron beams, cellular structures can be examined in more detail than with light and lenses alone
- Translational genetics – using knowledge gained from investigation to create treatments or create deeper understanding of cellular mechanisms
He and his team use these tools to map the intricate protein networks that maintain photoreceptor function, revealing how their disruption leads to degeneration. Today, his research not only defines the molecular architecture of Usher proteins but also drives forward gene‑based therapeutic strategies.
As part of the annual lecture, a prize giving ceremony also took place to recognise exceptional people in our institute. It was a true celebration with three awards given to members of our BRC team.
We also sponsor the public and patient involvement and engagement prize each year.
This year Amanda Carr and her team were selected for their ongoing dedication to simplifying and explaining complicated mechanisms of cells, DNA and the retina to the public. The team use excellent and importantly accessible experiments, games and illustrative props. The team have carefully created, curated and transported these tools to a variety of public engagement events speaking to a range of people from professionals to young children. They can speak with anyone at any level in an engaging and accessible way. Congratulations to the team.
The runner up Dr. Jacqueline Miller was praised for her outstanding public and patient involvement and co-production she utilised during her Ci2i PhD. Using qualitative research methods, Dr Miller worked with young people, professionals and parents to distil the variety of experiences children have whilst participating in eye health research. They then worked together on a list of recommendations which are in the process of being implemented within the NIHR Moorfields Clinical Research Facility. You can read more about the Ci2i Research here. Dr Miller now works for our NIHR BRC: Moorfields as the facilitator of the EyeYPAG a young person’s advisory panel.
“I am very happy to receive this award! It recognises how amazingly impactful it is to work alongside eyeYPAG as a researcher; eyeYPAG members have been part of my PhD journey since the beginning. I am truly grateful to them and highly value the uplift in quality they bring to research.”
Dr Miller
Claire Roberts, Project Manager of our BRC team won the Director’s award for her brilliant work ethic and unassuming manner.
“I’m honoured to receive the Director’s Award. I felt very humbled, as there are so many colleagues whose achievements deserve recognition. I am truly grateful for all the kind words and support – The IoO is a special place to work.”
Claire Roberts
And last but by no means least Dr. Subhojit Chakraborty, an experienced researcher himself, working in Research Engagement for the BRC won the EDI award for the ‘coffee hour’ events he runs on a regular basis locally for members of the public and staff. These relaxed meet ups invite researchers to explain their research in an understandable and conversational way inviting questions and discussion across audiences.
“This is a recognition of the BRC PPIE team’s efforts to make research engagement accessible and inclusive. The strength of the team is each individual member, and the strength of each member is the team. Congratulations to the Team!”
Dr. Subhojit Chakraborty modestly said
Full list of winners:
- Research excellence award: Erika Aguzzi – won for her work in glaucoma, Davide Piccolo – Runner up
- Directors award: Joint award Ibrahim Salami and Claire Roberts
- Institute award for teaching excellence: Dun Jack Fu – winner, Thekshayeni Thanabalasignham (Shinny), runner up
- Award for collegiality: Naz Hussain
- Equality Diversity and Inclusion: Subhojit Chakraborty
- Public patient and involvement and engagement: Amanda Carr and team – winner, Dr Jacqueline Miller