Nystagmus Network UK

Volunteers wanted for a study on the usability of iris recognition technology

The Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) is looking for volunteers to take part in a study examining how people with nystagmus interact with iris recognition systems.

Biometric systems (for example fingerprint recognition, iris recognition and face recognition) are becoming more and more widespread. Biometric systems are already in use at airports as a means of verifying a passenger's identity and in the near future we could encounter them at work and even in the home.

Relatively little research has been done to identify and solve accessibility problems in this area and RNIB is keen to identify what problems (if any) exist for people with nystagmus when using iris recognition systems.

RNIB is keen to recruit as many volunteers as possible in order to maximise the impact of the findings from the study. In order to take part you must:

Have a nystagmus, previously diagnosed by a qualified healthcare professional;
Be between the ages of 18 and 80;
Live within the Birmingham, Bristol or London areas;
Be available to attend two sessions approximately 6 weeks apart, between the months of June and November 2008.

If you are interested in taking part in this study, or you would like further information, please contact Shaun Leamon at the RNIB, at shaun.leamon@rnib.org.uk, or by phone on 0207 391 2191.

In 2005, we held the world's first International Research Workshop on nystagmus. It was a spectacular achievement and of great success. It has led to important advances in our understanding of nystagmus and hence, closer to a treatment.

We are doing it again!

The cost of bringing together researchers from around the globe is high, but the potential return on such an investment is tremendous; a treatment could dramatically change our lives.

The Workshop will cost about £30,000 and a subsequent book would cost £10,000. A total of £40,000.

We are pledging £10,000 from our current funds and approaching funding organisations. However, we need your donations of whatever size; every penny helps.

There are two ways you can help:

Donate directly through JustGiving
Become a fundraiser by doing a sponsored event. If this is of interest to you, email Paul White for more information.

The June/July edition of the netletter is now available and ready to read! It covers a variety of topics including:

Open Day
Research Workshop
Oliver Jones' Diary
Education Bulletin
Leicester University - Special Nystagmus Lecture
OUCH!TALK
In the news
Art through touch
Thumbnail of Paul White (Information Development Manager)
and much, much more...

This month's Netletter can be downloaded in pdf format here.