I am an EMCR with extensive knowledge in RNA biology, specifically RNA silencing, epitranscriptomics and epigenetics. My current research focusses on the role that non-coding RNAs such as circRNAs, miRNAs and lncRNAs play in retinal degenerative diseases. I have been awarded a NSW RNA Future Leader EMCR grant to develop serum-based RNA biomarkers as companion diagnostic tools. Using genetic, proteomic and expression data will allow a comprehensive understanding of the molecular changes that translate from the retina into the blood stream during degeneration. At this conference I will be presenting cutting edge spatial transcriptomics data that allowed me to identify localised key molecular changes in the retina that contribute and drive retinal degeneration. Bringing spatial, single cell, bulk and miRNA sequencing data together allows us to form a holistic understanding of the retina at homeostasis and during dysregulation, opening the door for the future development of RNA-based therapeutics.