Working across disciplines and in collaboration with our global network, the Secretariat helps translate patient priorities into meaningful research, policy, advocacy, and engagement initiatives.

The Secretariat is responsible for coordinating Retina International’s day-to-day activities and supporting the delivery of its strategic priorities.

Working alongside the Board of Directors, Scientific & Medical Advisory Board (SMAB), member organisations, and external partners, the team helps ensure that the voices and experiences of people affected by retinal conditions inform research, policy, and decision-making.

The Secretariat’s work includes:

• Coordinating the delivery of Retina International’s strategic priorities and programmes
• Advancing research, patient evidence, and scientific collaboration
• Supporting health policy and advocacy initiatives
• Strengthening engagement with member organisations and the wider retinal community
• Communicating research findings, organisational activities, and patient priorities
• Managing financial operations and supporting organisational sustainability
• Building partnerships that advance Retina International’s global mission

Retina International’s Secretariat brings together professionals with diverse backgrounds and expertise, united by a shared commitment to improving outcomes for people living with retinal conditions.

From scientific research and health policy to communications, finance, and community engagement, each team member contributes to strengthening the organisation’s work and supporting its international network.

The Secretariat works collaboratively to ensure that patient perspectives remain central to research, policy development, and the pursuit of better access to information, support, and treatment.

Chief Executive Officer

Avril Daly leads Retina International, the patient-led global umbrella organisation representing charities and foundations working to promote retinal research and related health policy across 43 countries.

Avril has worked in health policy for rare and common eye diseases since 2000. She previously served as CEO of Fighting Blindness in Ireland from 2009 to 2015 and as Chairperson of Rare Disease Ireland from 2006 to 2019.

She was elected to the Board of Rare Disease Europe (EURORDIS) in 2009 and is now President of the organisation. Avril has also contributed to national and European health policy initiatives, including Ireland’s National Plan for Rare Diseases and work supporting access to orphan therapies.

Throughout her career, Avril has held leadership positions across patient advocacy, research, and health policy organisations. She is a strong advocate for the role of patients in shaping the development of appropriate healthcare interventions, from concept to delivery.

Avril holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business and International Relations and is affected by Retinitis Pigmentosa.

Director of Research, Patient Evidence and Programmes

Dr Nabin Paudel leads Retina International’s work in research, patient evidence, and programmes, bringing expertise in optometry, vision science, and research.

With undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications in optometry and vision science and more than eight years of research experience, Nabin has worked across areas including refractive errors, low vision, quality of life, and children’s vision.

His role includes developing and managing global studies on disease burden and impact, coordinating patient-led focus groups and surveys, engaging with stakeholders, and sharing research findings at national and international conferences.

Nabin also has a special interest in science communication, public engagement, philanthropy, and mentoring.

Head of Scientific Affairs

Dr Ellen Moran leads scientific affairs at Retina International, supporting the organisation’s commitment to scientific excellence, collaboration, and the communication of research.

Ellen completed her PhD in Translational Rheumatology in 2009 and has worked as a laboratory-based researcher in Ireland, the United Kingdom, and Australia before moving into research and programme management.

Her areas of particular interest include scientific events, communication, and medical writing, helping connect scientific knowledge with the wider research and patient communities.

Postdoctoral Researcher

Dr Kate Fankun Cao is a Postdoctoral Researcher at Retina International, specialising in health systems and public health research.

She brings experience from research institutions, government bodies, and hospitals, applying innovative methodologies to address complex healthcare challenges. Her work has supported policymakers and hospital administrators through evidence-based research and insights.

Kate also has extensive volunteer experience in education, reflecting her commitment to collaboration, knowledge-sharing, and improving outcomes through research.

Head of Finance

Maria Gildea manages Retina International’s financial operations, bringing experience in financial management and a strong focus on accuracy, transparency, and efficiency.

She supports the organisation’s financial reporting and day-to-day financial processes, helping ensure that resources are managed responsibly in support of Retina International’s mission.

Through her work, Maria contributes to the organisation’s financial accountability and long-term sustainability.

Head of Communications

Claire Duggan leads Retina International’s global communications strategy across digital, media, and stakeholder channels.

With a background in journalism, health research, and advocacy, Claire works to ensure that lived experience is reflected in policy, research, and access to treatment. Her experience spans digital media, brand development, strategic communications, and high-impact campaigns within the not-for-profit and health research sectors.

Claire holds a degree in Media and a postgraduate qualification in Digital Media. She is particularly interested in how communications can support innovation, strengthen engagement, and drive meaningful impact in global health.

Membership Engagement Coordinator

Navya Dhir supports member engagement at Retina International, bringing experience in communications, community building, and international stakeholder engagement.

She has previously managed relationships within a senior international member community, creating opportunities for members to connect, contribute, and collaborate.

Her experience includes developing newsletters, digital campaigns, events, and member-led programmes, with a focus on listening to community needs and making participation more accessible.

Navya has worked across marketing, events, and project management in Ireland and India. She holds an MSc in Marketing from Trinity College Dublin.

The Secretariat works closely with Retina International’s Board of Directors, Scientific & Medical Advisory Board, member organisations, and partners to advance a shared vision: a future where everyone affected by a retinal condition can benefit from better information, support, research opportunities, and treatments.

By bringing together scientific expertise, patient evidence, effective communication, and global collaboration, the Secretariat helps turn Retina International’s mission into action.