Prof. Shomi
Bhattacharya is head of the molecular genetics department
at the Institute of Ophthalmology in London, UK. He has a unique record
as an outstanding scientist of molecular genetic investigations of eye
diseases. The genetic register of patients with a variety of inherited
eye diseases at Moorfields Eye Hospital, provides a unique resource
and the opportunity to undertake molecular genetic investigations to
identify the genes involved in these diseases. The procedures for genetic
mapping and identification of disease genes via a conventional positional
cloning approach or the more novel bioinformatics based approach utilising
the information available in the various Human Genome databases, are
already well established in the department. Along with clinical colleagues,
the assessment of large pedigrees suitable for gene mapping has been
undertaken for the various types of retinal degenerations including
retinitis pigmentosa, corneal dystrophies, congenital cataracts, dominant
optic atrophy and congenital glaucoma. In addition to his scientific
background, Prof. Bhattacharya managed several national and international
projects. [ref. http://www.ucl.ac.uk/ioo/research/bhattacharya.htm] |
Dr. Wheeler-Schilling is head of the Research Management Unit (RMU; Stabsstelle Wissenschaftsmanagement) at the University Eye Hospital in Tuebingen, Germany. The RMU manages a wide and diverse portfolio of local, national and international projects, including eight EC-projects (IHP, RTD, IF). Over a period of years, the RMU has proved their ability to manage this level of diversity successfully and effectively. The RMU has an established team of professional project co-ordinators, who are focused on cost effective and efficient science-driven management. In addition to their management skills, this team also has extensive knowledge and understanding of developmental issues. Effective partnerships between the research teams and further partners have been created and sustained. The RMU provides a management and training service that understands the specific scientific thinking and gives quality support to the team leaders in the 'RETNET' project. As the RMU is not directly involved in implementing the scientific activities proposed, it provides an objective, independent project administration service, which is appreciated by both the donor and the scientific institutions involved. For the donor, it provides assurance that administrative and financial matters are managed efficiently and professionally; for the participating research institutions, it allows them to focus their energies on scientific issues, without having to consider non-research issues. [ref. http://www.uak-swm.de] back [<<] |