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Avril Daly (she/her)
Chief Executive Officer
Avril Daly is CEO of the patient-led global umbrella organisation, Retina International, which represents the voice of charities and foundations concerned with the promotion of retina research and related health policy in 43 countries.
Avril has worked in health policy for rare and common eye disease since 2000 and was CEO of the Irish NGO, Fighting Blindness between 2009-2015. She was Chairperson of Rare Disease Ireland from 2006–2019. In 2009 she was elected to the Board of Directors of Rare Disease Europe – EURORDIS, and is now the President of the organisation.
In 2011 Avril was appointed by the Irish Minister for Health to a steering committee working towards the development of the Irish National Plan for Rare Diseases. The plan was published in 2014. She was appointed to the Irish Clinical Programme for Rare Diseases at the Health Service Executive (HSE) in Ireland in 2014 and was recently appointed to the Rare Disease Technology Review Committee and the National Centre of Pharmacoeconomics (NCPE) to review orphan therapies that fail initial Health Technologies Assessment (HTA) for statutory reimbursement.
Avril has held board positions with the European Patient Forum, The European Platform for Patient Organisation Science and Industry (EPPOSI), the HRCI (formerly Medical Research Charities Group) in Ireland and IPPOSI, the Irish Platform for Patients Organisation Science and Industry. She believes that patients have a critical role to play in aiding the development of appropriate interventions from concept to delivery.
Avril holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and International Relations. She is affected by Retinitis Pigmentosa.
Science & Research Team
Dr Nabin Paudel, Ph.D. (he/him)
Director of Research, Patient Evidence and Programmes
Nabin Paudel is RI’s Director of Research, Patient Evidence and Programmes. With a degree in Optometry and Vision Science in both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels and over eight years of research experience, Nabin brings a wealth of knowledge to the team.
Nabin’s previous research work has encompassed a range of themes such as refractive errors, low vision, quality of life and children’s vision. Nabin’s role in the team includes developing and managing global data studies on disease burden and impact, developing patient-led focus groups and surveys, engaging with stakeholders and disseminating research findings at national and international conferences.
Nabin also has a special interest in science communication, public engagement, philanthropy and mentoring.
Dr Ellen Moran, PhD (she/her)
Head of Scientific Affairs
Dr. Ellen Moran is the Head of Scientific Affairs at Retina International. Ellen completed her PhD studies in Translational Rheumatology in 2009. Ellen has also worked as a laboratory-based researcher in Ireland, UK and Australia before transitioning into Research and Programme Management.
Ellen has a special interest in Scientific Events, Communication and Medical Writing.
Dr. Kate Fankun Cao, PhD (she/her)
Postdoctoral Researcher
Dr. Kate Fankun Cao is a Postdoctoral Researcher at Retina International, specialising in Health Systems and Public Health research. She brings a strong background in applying innovative methodologies to address complex healthcare challenges. With international experience across research institutions, government bodies, and hospitals, Kate has played a pivotal role in supporting policymakers and hospital administrators through evidence-based research. Her extensive volunteer work in education reflects her patient, focused, and dynamic approach to both research and collaboration.
Maria Gildea (she/her)
Finance Manager
Maria Gildea is the in-house Finance Manager at Retina International, bringing a wealth of experience to the role. With a strong background in financial management and a keen eye for detail, she ensures the organisation’s financial operations run smoothly and efficiently. Maria is dedicated to maintaining transparency and accuracy in financial reporting, supporting Retina International’s mission with her expertise and commitment.
Claire Duggan (she/her)
Head of Communications
Claire Duggan is Head of Communications at Retina International. With a background in journalism, health research, and advocacy, she leads the RI global communications strategy across digital, media, and stakeholder channels, working to ensure that lived experience is reflected in policy, research, and access to treatment.
She brings a background in journalism, digital media, and the national health research charity sector, with experience delivering high-impact campaigns, brand development, and strategic communications initiatives.
She holds a degree in Media and a postgraduate qualification in Digital Media, and began her career in fast-paced news environments before moving into the not-for-profit sector. She has a strong interest in the role of communications in supporting innovation, strengthening engagement, and driving meaningful impact in global health.
Navya Dhir (she/her)
Membership Engagement Coordinator
Navya Dhir is a communications and community engagement professional who is passionate about bringing people together and making participation feel meaningful. In her previous role, she served as the main point of contact for a senior international member community, building strong relationships and creating opportunities for members to connect, contribute, and collaborate.
She has experience designing and managing engagement initiatives, from newsletters and digital campaigns to events and member-led programmes, always with a focus on listening to what people need and making it easier for them to take part.
Navya has worked across marketing, events, and project management roles in Ireland and India, supporting campaigns and initiatives that reached diverse audiences and encouraged active involvement. Navya holds an MSc in Marketing from Trinity College Dublin.
