Shuo Li, ETH Zurich, develops soft hydrogel corneal implant to stabilise the cornea; first human clinical study planned
A mini-implant for better vision | ETH Zurich
A mini-implant for better vision
When the eye’s cornea is severely damaged, a transplant is often the only solution. Yet donor tissue remains scarce. A researcher from ETH Zurich is developing an implant that could bridge this gap and restore people’s vision.
Millions of people around the world are affected by keratoconus, a progressive eye disorder where the cornea thins and bulges outwards. In severe cases, a corneal transplant may be the only treatment option; however, there is a limited supply of donor tissue.
The Augel project is set to change this. ETH Pioneer Fellow Shuo Li is developing a soft hydrogel implant to stabilise the cornea and improve vision. The implant can be manufactured entirely in the lab, is cost-effective and can be integrated with existing laser surgery methods.
Initial tests in the laboratory and in animal models have yielded promising results. The next step is to initiate the first human clinical study of the method.
The Pioneer Fellowship is a comprehensive support programme that provides innovative thinkers with the ideal conditions to launch their entrepreneurial ventures. The programme is primarily aimed at doctoral students but is also open to Master’s students and postdocs. Pioneer Fellows receive a grant of 180,000 Swiss francs over 12 to 18 months, along with comprehensive mentoring and training. Pioneer Fellowships are jointly funded by the ETH Foundation and ETH Zurich.
16.06.2026 by Nicole Davidson, Corporate Communications