My research programme is aimed at investigating the ultrastructure of connective tissues and in particular, the basis of the shape and transparency of the cornea. The methods used include the complementary techniques of X-ray diffraction and electron microscopy together with a range of imaging and biochemical methods. X-ray work is mostly carried out at the Diamond synchrotron source near Oxford. Much of the recent work has been involved with exploring the fine structure of the cornea and sclera, the swelling properties of these tissues, and the basis of their optical and/or mechanical function. My research has been primarily funded by four consecutive 5-year MRC programme grants. The current grant, valued at £2.4 million, aims to understand the mechanisms behind corneal pathologies and to develop therapeutic strategies for the treatment of several connective tissue disorders. I am also involved in collaborative projects aimed to develop artificial biological corneal replacements.

X-ray diffraction provides information about the packing of collagen molecules within fibrils, and about the size and arrangement of the fibrils themselves. The information is quantitative, and pertains to tissue in its physiological state. The data have therefore allowed us to make a unique contribution to the theoretical calculations of corneal light transmission and we are currently using the techniques to explain the scattering characteristics of the cornea in pathological conditions or following various surgeries including LASIK and photorefractive keratectomy. We also have an active programme inproving methods of corneal cross-linkin and set up the UK Cross-linking Consortium in 2013.