Over the course of their careers Professor Noel Alpins AM and Associate Professor Julian Rait OAM have seen research transform ophthalmology with new treatments allowing them to protect more people’s sight. 

They are now supporting vision research so today’s young ophthalmologists see a similar transformation through their career. 

“Research and development are the lifeblood of any industry,” says Associate Professor Rait. 

“Throughout my career, my patients have received immense benefit from research and scientific progress, and now I’m giving back to support the future of research and healthcare. 

“And as Deputy Chair of Vision Australia, I really see the impact of vision loss and what new treatments might achieve for those with blindness or low vision.” 

Associate Professor Rait and Professor Alpins are inaugural members of CERA’s Eye Research Alliance and are beginning to build a community of eye care professionals who can support research. 

Professor Alpins has made significant contributions to improving cataract and refractive surgery, developing new methods to plan and analyse laser surgeries for better outcomes for patients. 

“I work to make a difference to the vision of every person who walks through my door, but with published research, your work adopted by colleagues internationally can help many, many more gain an improvement in their quality of life,” says Professor Alpins. 

“Bringing people together with their unique skills, perspectives and interests, we can achieve remarkable outcomes for patients we couldn’t do so alone.” 

This story was originally published in Share our vision: Annual Review 2024.