“I’ve always wanted my work in vision research to make a significant impact in people’s lives,” says Dr Alicia Brunet, an early‑career postdoctoral researcher at the Lions Eye Institute. “What I didn’t expect was how much support I’d need just to stay in the field.”
Dr Alicia Brunet at the Lions Eye Institute
Dr Brunet works with the Retinal Genomics and Therapy Research Group, inspired by breakthroughs led by senior researchers like Dr Livia Carvalho. But early in her career, she saw firsthand how many barriers women face in medical research — from fewer funding opportunities to limited long‑term career pathways.
“Sometimes it felt like talent wasn’t the issue — opportunity was,” she says.
Everything changed when Mandy Loton informed the Lions Eye Institute of her intention to leave a legacy gift dedicated to uplifting female researchers. That support ensures early‑career scientists like Dr Brunet can continue to pursue discoveries that protect sight and prevent blindness.
Thanks to the support of people like Mandy, female researchers will be able to continue on their research path and reveal new scientific insights. But the journey to protect people’s sight and independence is far from over.
Every step forward is made possible by the generosity of supporters who believe research can change lives.
Your support today can help ensure researchers like Dr Brunet have the resources they need to keep pushing the vital work forward.
Dr Danuta Sampson, Dr Jessica Mountford, Associate Professor Holly Chinnery and Associate Professor Paula Yu at the Lions Eye Institute
“It means stability, mentorship and the chance to focus fully on research,” Dr Brunet says. “Knowing someone believes in our potential is incredibly motivating.”
Today, her work contributes to new insights that may one day stop people from losing their independence and the ability to see the beauty in everyday life.
“We believe that one day, all forms of blindness will be preventable,” she says. “And with the support of people like Mandy, we’re getting closer to that future.”
Donations of $2.00 and over are tax deductible.
