During the DOPS 2025 congress, held on 21 and 22 November at the Sanadome Hotel & Spa in Nijmegen, young researchers from across the country presented their latest insights in ophthalmic research. The Low Vision Research Group was also strongly represented with several presentations and posters. Below, we highlight the contributions of Jean-Marie Milongo, Katie Curro, Rob van der Linden and Arthur Pijpaert.
Jean-Marie Milongo – Winner of the Best Poster Presentation Award
Jean-Marie Milongo presented an innovative approach to optimising the care pathway for patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) through the Metro Mapping method. His research focuses on co-creation with patients and integrating patient-reported outcomes into clinical practice, with the aim of improving quality of care. For this novel approach, he received the Best Poster Presentation Award, including a travel grant to the ARVO Annual Meeting 2026 in Denver, Colorado.
Katie Curro – Retinal biomarkers in preclinical Alzheimer’s disease
Katie Curro discussed her research on longitudinal changes in the retinal microvasculature in individuals in the preclinical stage of Alzheimer’s disease. Using OCT angiography, she explored the potential of retinal vascular changes as early biomarkers for neurodegenerative disorders. Her work highlights the role of ophthalmic imaging in the early detection of brain diseases.
Rob van der Linden – Online self-help for adults with visual impairment
Rob van der Linden presented the first results of a new online self-help programme for adults with visual impairment. The programme, currently implemented at Amsterdam UMC and Royal Visio, includes modules on acceptance, relaxation, energy management, positive thinking and resilience. The initial findings indicate good accessibility and high relevance for the target group.
Arthur Pijpaert – Innovation in eye-tracking technology
Arthur Pijpaert was the first to introduce the application of the Navarro aspherical cornea model in stereoscopic eye-tracking. This method improves the accuracy of gaze tracking, particularly for eccentric gaze directions, and contributes to further refinement of diagnostic and research applications in ophthalmology.