News Release

Research to restore the retina

University of Kentucky biology professor named Pew's 'Biomedical Researcher of the Month'

Grant and Award Announcement

Pew Charitable Trusts

Biologist Ann Morris, Ph.D. is The Pew Charitable Trusts' featured biomedical researcher of the month for her creative research on vision in zebrafish. Because the fish can re-grow lost cells and tissue, 2011 Pew biomedical scholar Dr. Morris is studying how precursor cells in their eyes generate the rods and cones necessary for vision. Her lab at the University of Kentucky trusts their work will lead to new therapies for degenerative diseases like retinitis pigmentosa, macular degeneration and retinal detachment.

Dr. Morris' story is part of a "Biomedical Researcher of the Month" series launched by Pew. Since 1985, Pew's biomedical programs have provided funding to more than 500 early-career scientists who, like Dr. Morris, show outstanding promise in science with the potential to advance human health. The scholars' exceptional research has earned them Nobel Prizes, Lasker Awards, MacArthur Genius Awards and other distinctions.

Experts are available for interviews regarding Dr. Morris' research and the program:

  • Ann Morris, Ph.D., assistant professor, Department of Biology, University of Kentucky
  • Anita Pepper, Ph.D., director of the Pew Programs in the Biomedical Sciences

Visit http://www.pewhealth.org/other-resource/Vision-Researcher-Earns-Her-Stripes-85899452735 to read the full profile story.

###

For information regarding Pew's biomedical programs, please visit http://www.pewhealth.org/biomedical-research.

The Pew Charitable Trusts is driven by the power of knowledge to solve today's most challenging problems. Pew applies a rigorous, analytical approach to improve public policy, inform the public and stimulate civic life. www.pewtrusts.org


Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.