Education Hub

Background

Retina International is now in its fifth year of delivering our Education Hub.

This Education programme is designed to equip advocates with the knowledge and skills to be effective agents of change in the retina community and beyond.

Over the course of this four-month programme, participants will work closely with subject matter experts across a range of selected topics, gaining a comprehensive insight and experience into the ophthalmology research and advocacy landscape at an international level.

Below, you will find information about the programme; its objectives, the curriculum, and how to apply.

Goals of the Programme

Build knowledge & skills within the retina patient community that enables informed participation in research and innovation.
Foster capacity for patient-active advocacy in the patient community.
Develop a database of confident patient leaders for referral to advocacy and advisory ambassador roles on behalf of Retina International.
Provide personal development and networking opportunities for the retinal patient community.
Develop novel links and opportunities with learned societies and other bodies in our field through an expanded network.
Create a robust and comprehensive patient education model to support local capacity building amongst Retina International member organisation.

Format and Time Commitment

This course is taking place over four months and commenced in December 2025.

It will consist of (on average) a 2.5-hour virtual seminar every 2 weeks. Participants will be required to complete assignments via an online teaching platform or by email. A minimum completion rate will be required to receive a course completion certificate.

Modules:

There will be 8 modules, which together provide a comprehensive overview into the retinal and ophthalmological research and policy landscape. They are listed here and described below:

Introduction to the eye, visual function assessment and diagnosis and common retinal diseases (inherited, age-related and rare, such as, thyroid eye disease)
Challenges and gaps in the diagnosis and management of Retinal Disorders, associated mental health burden and policy challenges in retinal diseases
Clinical Trial Endpoints
AI in ophthalmology and ethical considerations in ophthalmology research
Patient Registries and real-world data
Innovation in inherited and age-related retinal diseases diagnosis and management
Regulation and regulatory agencies
Future of retinal research and the importance of the patient voice

Testimonials

The below is anonymous feedback received from the participants of the Education Hub.

“I really enjoyed learning about other countries’ genetic testing processes, and comparing and finding gaps where we may be able to help.”
“I love how we went into the history of ethics, and then discussed different scenarios. It was fascinating to hear other people’s opinions. I love the open discussion setting.”
“The wide range of benefits and options that were discussed about different registries was fascinating. I am very intrigued to find out more about the LHON repository to see how we can adopt some of the same principles.”
“The Education Hub content was hugely valuable and has filled gaps in my knowledge about issues that are really important for patient advocacy organisations”

RI Education Hub at conferences:

RI had the honour of presenting the Education Hub at the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) Annual Meeting in 2022. Click the link below to download the poster.

Click here to download the RI Education Hub poster.

Our abstract, ‘Short-Term Evaluation of a Capacity Building Training Course (Retina International Education Hub) for Patients and Patient Representatives in Patient Involvement in Degenerative Retinal Diseases Research and Development’, was published in Value in Health – International Society for. Pharmacoeconomics and Outcomes Research (ISPOR):

Click Here to read the ISPOR Abstract.

Application Information and Participant Selection Criteria:

Commitment to complete the programme
On completion of the programme, a commitment to use the skills and knowledge gained over the course of the programme to further the mission of Retina International at a local, regional, and/or international level.
Interest in gaining knowledge of research, development & advocacy
All courses will be delivered in English; a good understanding of English will be required
High-speed internet connection
Affiliated with a full member organisation of Retina International (or SMAB member in case of a researcher)
Be living with, a supporter of someone living with, or an advocate for those living with a retinal degenerative condition.
Early career researcher in retina (basic science /clinical)

Student Profile

This intensive programme has been designed to prepare members of the retina community be effective patient advocates in high level, international fora. It is suited to those who are passionate and keen to represent the retina patient community in an active, ethical, and inclusive manner. Applications from individuals able to demonstrate confidence and capacity with soft skills such as critical thinking, collaboration, communication and critical thinking are particularly welcomed.

Application Documents

Up-to-date CV
- Two pages’ maximum
Motivation Letter
- One-page maximum
- Outline your reasons for applying, the compatibility of your skills and experiences with the programme, and your intention for how you will use the skills and knowledge developed through this Education Programme
Letter of Endorsement from affiliated Member organisation
- A reference from the member organisation expressing their support

Please email all supporting documents (CV, Motivation Letter, and Letter of Endorsement) to Dr Ellen Moran; ellen.moran@retina-international.org

Incomplete applications will not be considered for selection.