The Lions Eye Institute is at the forefront of advancing regenerative treatments for corneal blindness, a critical area of ophthalmic research with the potential to transform patient outcomes globally.
Under the leadership of early-career clinician-scientist Dr Danial Roshandel, our research program is committed to developing innovative solutions that restore sight to individuals affected by corneal diseases.
In 2025, Dr Roshandel undertook an invitational professional visit to Spain, enhancing his expertise through collaboration with leading international researchers and clinicians in the field. This visit, facilitated by a longstanding collaboration with Associate Professor Michael Edel, was pivotal in strengthening the Institute’s global partnerships and advancing our regenerative medicine research.
A central component of the visit was a four-week observership at the prestigious Barraquer Ophthalmology Centre in Barcelona.
Presentation at the Barraquer Ophthalmology Centre clinical session. Professor Rafael Barraquer, Corneal Surgeon and Medical Director, Dr Danial Roshandel, and Associate Professor Michael Edel, Principal Scientist at the University of Barcelona and The University of Western Australia (left to right)
This hands-on experience provided Dr Roshandel with valuable insights into advanced corneal and ocular surface management techniques. It also included opportunities to engage with high-volume, specialised care models and contemporary surgical approaches, reinforcing the Institute’s commitment to integrating international best practices into our clinical and research efforts.
Dr Roshandel’s visit extended to several leading institutions in Spain, including the Banc de Sang i Teixits and the Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, as well as the IOBA Applied Ophthalmology Institute in Valladolid and IdiPAZ in Madrid.
At these institutions, he delivered an invited presentation, participated in clinical and laboratory tours and engaged in discussions on collaborative opportunities in regenerative medicine. These interactions are setting the stage for future joint research initiatives, advancing the global understanding of ocular surface disorders and regenerative therapies.
A key highlight of the visit was Dr Roshandel’s engagement with Professor Jorge Alió at Vissum in Alicante, a renowned leader in corneal and refractive surgery. This meeting offered valuable exposure to an integrated clinical–research model and the latest advances in corneal regeneration, further expanding the scope of Dr Roshandel’s research.
Dr Danial Roshandel with Professor Jorge Alió, Professor and Chairman of Ophthalmology, Miguel Hernández University and President, Vissum Corporation, Alicante (left to right)
The experience has been instrumental in identifying emerging technologies and trends in ocular surface research, while also strengthening collaborative networks that will support the Institute’s long-term goals. Dr Roshandel’s ability to benchmark against global leaders in the field has already enhanced his clinical and research capabilities, with direct applications to ongoing work at the Lions Eye Institute.
In 2025, Dr Roshandel’s efforts were further recognised through the successful acquisition of two state government research grants. His research contributions continue to make an impact, as evidenced by multiple presentations at international conferences and contributions to high-impact peer-reviewed publications. The outcomes of these collaborations will continue to shape the translational research portfolio at the Lions Eye Institute, positioning us as a global leader in regenerative treatments for corneal blindness.
