The funding will contribute to research into diabetic retinopathy and retinopathy of prematurity at Queen's University of Belfast.
Dr Denise McDonald, lecturer in ophthalmology at Queen's University, said: 'This is a fantastic opportunity for us. We're very grateful to the charity for this grant which will allow us to carry out some very important research.'
The second grant Ð the Fight for Sight Frankenburg PhD studentship Ð will fund new research into retinitis pigmentosa at the Institute of Ophthalmology.
Retinitis pigmentosa (RP) affects one in 5,000 people in the Western world. There are many genetic forms of RPand the gene which causes the defect on chromosome 19q has been identified. Some people carrying the defective gene show no symptoms of RP while others are severely affected.
The main aim of the project is to identify the DNA sequence responsible for why some people with the defective gene are more badly affected than others.
The results of the research will benefit affected families through genetic counselling and also help formulate effective therapies.
Professor Shomi Bhattacharya, professor of experimental ophthalmology at the Institute of Ophthalmology in London, said: 'I am delighted that Fight for Sight has made this generous award which will greatly help in understanding the genetic basis of RP.'
Optical research charity Fight for Sight is funding two £60,000 PhD studentships for research into retinopathy in premature infants and people with diabetes, and the causes of retinitis pigmentosa.