Madalena Castro

Mabel Churn Scholarship in Ophthalmology

Joining us from: United Kingdom

DPhil in Clinical Neurosciences (2025)

Before coming to Oxford, I studied Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge, specialising in Genetics and Biochemistry and graduating with an integrated master’s degree. This shaped my interest in genome editing, which I pursued further at the Innovative Genomics Institute, UC Berkeley, where I focused on optimising a non-viral approach for delivering genome-editing tools into blood stem cells, with potential therapeutic applications.

My DPhil research explores genetic therapies, including genome editing, for the treatment of glaucoma. I am particularly interested in whether these approaches could help preserve vision by protecting the nerve cells in the eye damaged by this disease. Since starting my project, I have enjoyed broadening my understanding of genetic therapies in a new disease context and moving into ophthalmology, a field with a strong history of gene therapy research and clinical translation. I have also valued working alongside clinicians to gain insight into how research can move towards clinical trials.

I am very grateful to the Mabs Mardulyn Foundation and St Cross College for supporting my DPhil through the Mabel Churn Scholarship in Ophthalmology. This scholarship made it possible for me to take up my place at Oxford and continue my research training. It has given me the opportunity to broaden and deepen my knowledge of genetic therapies while developing my skills as a researcher.

Outside my research, I enjoy exploring and photographing Oxford, going on local walks, and taking ballet classes. I also value the friendly and welcoming community at St Cross, where I have met students and academics from around the world and across a wide range of disciplines.