Ashley Wood

Dr. Ashley Wood is a Senior Lecturer and Director of Learning and Teaching at the School of Optometry and Vision Sciences, Cardiff University. An experienced optometrist and Cardiff graduate, Dr. Wood has been with the institution since 2012, contributing significantly to both research and teaching in the field of vision sciences.

Dr. Wood's educational background includes a BSc in Optometry & Vision Science (2003-2006) and a PhD in "Retinal structure and function in Age-related Maculopathy" (2007-2011), both from Cardiff University. Professional credentials include Fellowship of the Higher Education Academy (FHEA), Accreditation for Eye Health Examination Wales (EHEW), and registration as an Optometrist with the General Optical Council (GOC: 01-32560).

Research interests focus primarily on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of vision loss in the EU/UK. Dr. Wood employs objective assessment methods including Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), ocular electrophysiology, and retinal imaging densitometry. Current work involves using a prototype long wavelength OCT device that enables visualization of the choroid, a layer of blood vessels beneath the retina not visible with standard OCT devices. This technology also allows retinal imaging under dark-adapted conditions, facilitating studies of physiological and pathological changes in the dark-adapted eye.

Dr. Wood has secured significant research funding including a Macular Society PhD Studentship (£99,858), AltRegen Ltd. Clinical Trial (£1.2M), and multiple studentships from the College of Optometrists and Abbeyfield Research Foundation. Current research projects focus on improving AMD detection and monitoring to ultimately support better treatments and prevent vision loss.

Scientific contributions include numerous publications on AMD detection, OCT imaging, and electrophysiological assessment. Key awards and recognitions include multiple CUROP Summer Studentships, Abbeyfield Research Foundation PhD Studentship, and ISCEV Travel Award.

Teaching responsibilities are extensive, including leadership of the Investigative Optometry and Case Studies module (OP3206) and Abnormal Ocular Conditions module (OP3104). Dr. Wood also delivers color vision lectures, supports clinical sessions, and supervises research projects. International teaching experience includes collaboration with HU University of Applied Sciences in Utrecht, Netherlands for the "Eye Care and Diabetes; the Bigger Picture" summer school.

Administrative roles include serving as Director of Learning and Teaching, Exams Liaison Officer, and chairing the Student-Staff Panel. Dr. Wood currently supervises multiple postgraduate students working on AMD-related research projects.