SEATTLE, WA, May 2, 2016 -- BrightFocus Foundation today recognized five scientists in the fields of macular degeneration and glaucoma research, awarding them grants named in honor of leaders in vision research and advocacy.
The five recognized today are among a group of 32 scientists who will collectively receive nearly $5 million in vision research grants this year from BrightFocus, a record level of financial support. The awards were presented at a Seattle breakfast event coinciding with the annual meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology.
"We are proud to honor and support these brilliant scientists as they strive to better understand and ultimately end macular degeneration and glaucoma. Their innovative work honors the legacies of the advocates and scientists in whose name these awards are given," said BrightFocus President and CEO Stacy Haller.
The five scientists honored today with named awards, all women, come from research institutions in four states in the US--California, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Ohio--and from Australia. The awards are as follows:
Macular Degeneration Research
Glaucoma Research
The names and projects of this year's other individual grant recipients will be announced at a later date, pending completion of final agreements with researchers and supporting institutions.
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The nonprofit BrightFocus Foundation drives innovative research worldwide and promotes public awareness of Alzheimer's, macular degeneration, and glaucoma. For more information, call 1-800-437-2423 or visit http://www.BrightFocus.org .