Julie Albon

Dr. Julie Albon is a Senior Lecturer and Deputy Director of Research within the School of Optometry & Vision Sciences at Cardiff University, part of the College of Biomedical and Life Sciences. She serves as Director of Postgraduate Research and leads the Optic Nerve Head Group, with additional responsibilities as HTA Person designate for Cathays Park HTA satellite license.

Her research focuses on investigating the human optic nerve head (ONH), particularly the lamina cribrosa and its insertion region into the sclera. She examines how ONH structure and connective tissue micro- and nano-organisation influences its biomechanics and susceptibility to glaucomatous optic neuropathy. Her work employs various ex vivo and in vivo techniques including non-linear microscopy, x-ray microtomography, and optical coherence tomography to analyze cells, connective tissue components (collagen, elastin, proteoglycans), and overall 3D architecture of the optic nerve head in aging and glaucoma.

Analysis of Dr. Albon's recent publications reveals a strong focus on optic nerve head biomechanics, glaucoma biomarkers, and innovative imaging techniques. Her work spans from fundamental connective tissue microstructure analysis to clinical applications in glaucoma detection. Notably, her research has expanded to include biomimetic materials research inspired by marine organisms like ostracods, demonstrating interdisciplinary innovation.

• Outstanding Contribution Award (2016)
• Cardiff University Research Fellowship (2015-2016)

Dr. Albon has successfully supervised 18 PhD students to completion and currently mentors several postgraduate researchers. Her research has been supported by numerous grants including Wellcome Trust ISSF3 Award, Global Challenges Research Fund, Health and Care Research Wales, DSTL, and Diamond synchrotron beamtime allocations. She collaborates extensively with researchers across Cardiff University and internationally, particularly in the fields of biomechanics, imaging, and glaucoma research.

As Director of Postgraduate Research and leader of the Optic Nerve Head Group, Dr. Albon oversees a multidisciplinary team investigating optic nerve head microstructure. Her work with the Vision Science Bioimaging Laboratories and collaborations with computer scientists applying machine learning to detect differences between glaucomatous and healthy ONHs represents cutting-edge approaches to early glaucoma detection.