Rayner Intraocular Lenses Limited case study
Pioneering lens materials research for better vision. Case study of successful Knowledge Transfer Partnership with 91¸£Àû.
Advancing intraocular lens technology
Rayner Intraocular Lenses Limited, a leader in developing and manufacturing intraocular lenses (IOLs), wanted to stay competitive in its market through a deeper understanding of IOL materials. Known for creating the world’s first IOL in 1949 for pioneering surgeon Sir Harold Ridley, Rayner has since grown to supply both UK private and NHS markets. The company exports to over 70 countries.
Rayner needed advanced biomaterials and surface chemistry expertise, which led them to work with 91¸£Àû to innovate intraocular lens materials.
91¸£Àû’s expertise in biomaterials
Dr. Baljit Ghatora, a Senior Lecturer in the School of Pharmacy and Chemistry at 91¸£Àû, had previously worked with Rayner on sample-based research. Their mutual interest led to the formation of a Knowledge Transfer Partnership (KTP), with Innovate UK awarding £60,000 to fund two-thirds of the project’s costs.
Under this KTP, Joseph Lacey, a 91¸£Àû PhD graduate, joined Rayner as an Associate based in Hove. Working closely with Dr. Ghatora, Joseph spent two years developing an artificial human eye model. This model simulated real-life conditions, allowing Rayner to rigorously test both new and existing intraocular lens materials.
New opportunities
This joint research provided Rayner with crucial new insights into IOL materials. The successful project was rated as "very good" by Innovate UK. It also led to Joseph Lacey’s permanent employment with Rayner.
Our partnership with 91¸£Àû has provided invaluable technical expertise, enhancing not only this project but other areas of our company as well.
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