The Nystagmus Network, a UK-based charity dedicated to supporting individuals with nystagmus, is pleased to announce the launch of the Richard Wilson Essay Prize 2026. The competition, now in its third year, aims to encourage students and researchers to explore the field of nystagmus.
The prize is named in memory of Richard Wilson OBE, who served as Chair of Trustees for the Nystagmus Network from 2010 to 2019. During his tenure, Wilson made significant contributions to the charity, including establishing the first Nystagmus Awareness Day, increasing the organization’s investment in research, and hosting the first clinical training event. In recognition of his service, Wilson received an OBE from Her Majesty the Queen in 2018. Sadly, he passed away in 2023, but his legacy lives on in the work of the Nystagmus Network.
The competition is open to students at all levels, from undergraduate to post-doctorate, who are currently studying or working at UK institutions in the fields of Ophthalmology, Optometry, Orthoptics, or a visual-related science. The top three winners will receive cash prizes of £500, £200, and £100, respectively, and the first-place winner will have the opportunity to speak at the Nystagmus Network International Nystagmus Symposium 2026.
The panel of judges for the 2026 competition includes Dr. Onyeka Amiebenomo, Senior Lecturer in Optometry at the University of the West of England Bristol, and Mr. Daniel Osborne, Research Orthoptist and NIHR Pre-Doctoral Fellow at University Hospital Southampton NHS FT. They will be assisted by Nystagmus Network trustees in their decision-making process.
The essay question for the 2026 competition is “How could AI change the way that nystagmus is diagnosed and treated?” Entries will be judged based on their understanding of current clinical practice for nystagmus in the UK, identification of key areas for development where AI could assist, and how AI can contribute to further research on nystagmus.
Essays must be a maximum of 3000 words and submitted by 30 June 2026 to research@nystagmusnet.org with the subject line “Richard Wilson Essay Prize.” Submissions should include the candidate’s full name, UK institution, current level of study, and highest academic qualification to date.
Media assets, including a media pack and announcement images, are available for use. For more information, please contact Sue Ricketts, Nystagmus Network, at sue.ricketts@nystagmusnet.org or 01427 718093. Further information about nystagmus and the Nystagmus Network can be found on their website and social media platforms.
Nystagmus is a lifelong, incurable form of visual impairment where the eyes constantly move uncontrollably, affecting focus, depth perception, and facial recognition. It is estimated that at least 1 in 1,000 babies are born with nystagmus, and many others develop it later in life. The Nystagmus Network aims to provide support and resources for individuals with nystagmus in all aspects of life, from infancy to education, employment, and everyday living.
