Professor Alan Stitt

McCauley Chair of Experimental Ophthalmology, Queen’s University Belfast

Dean of Innovation & Impact, Faculty of Medicine, Health & Life Sciences

Professor Alan Stitt is a globally recognized leader in retinal vascular biology, with over three decades of experience in translational ophthalmology. As the McCauley Chair of Experimental Ophthalmology at Queen’s University Belfast, his research has significantly advanced the understanding of diabetic retinopathy and age-related macular degeneration (AMD), particularly focusing on the roles of advanced glycation end-products and vascular dysfunction in disease progression. 

Beyond his academic achievements, Professor Stitt serves as the Dean of Innovation & Impact at Queen’s University, where he champions the translation of scientific discoveries into clinical applications. His leadership has been instrumental in fostering collaborations between academia and industry, notably through initiatives like the MRC Innovation Accelerator Account, which supports early-stage translational research. 

Professor Stitt’s commitment to innovation is further exemplified by his role as Chief Scientific Advisor at MediNect Ophtho, where he provides strategic guidance on study design and translational pathways.  His extensive publication record, with over 22,000 citations and an h-index of 78, underscores his impact on the field.   

At RetInnovate, Professor Stitt brings a critical perspective on the biological underpinnings of retinal diseases and the translational challenges in developing effective therapies. His expertise ensures that early-stage innovations are grounded in robust scientific evidence and aligned with clinical realities, bridging the gap between discovery and patient benefit.