Daisy Y. Shu, PhD

UNSW, Sydney

Dr. Daisy Shu is a Senior Lecturer and Head of the Retinal Research Group at the University of New South Wales' School of Optometry and Vision Science. Holding a Bachelor of Optometry and Vision Science from UNSW (2013) and a PhD in Cellular and Molecular Biology from the University of Sydney (2019), she further advanced her expertise through postdoctoral research at Harvard Medical School's Schepens Eye Research Institute. An expert in retinal epithelial and endothelial cell biology, Dr. Shu’s research delves into mitochondrial and metabolic dysfunctions that drive retinal diseases like age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Her work on the molecular mechanisms of epithelial-mesenchymal transition has provided critical insights into AMD pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets, and has been supported by prestigious grants and awards, including the ARVO Emerging Advocate Award and the ASIP Postdoctoral Award for Outstanding Research. Beyond her research, she is dedicated to translating scientific discoveries into clinical trials aimed at curing AMD, actively engages in science communication through her podcast “Behind Our Science,” and leads educational initiatives for graduate students.