best research topics for optometry

• YoungOD Connect
• CollaborativeEye
• Cataract/Refractive Surgery
• Contact Lenses
• Cornea/Anterior Segment
• Health Policy
• Human Interest
• Imaging/Diagnostics
• Neuro-Optometry
• Nutrition/Pharmaceuticals
• Ocular Surface
• Patient Care
• Practice Enrichment
• Current Issue
• Issue Archive
• Collaborative Case Reports
• Optometric Scholar
• Significant Findings
• youngodconnect

September 2021

Latest Innovations and Future Directions in Optometry

From myopia control to IOLs, new technologies keep coming down the pike.

Jaclyn Garlich, OD, FAAO

Roya Habibi, OD, FAAO, FSLS

Jacob Lang, OD, FAAO, Dipl ABO

Link has been copied to your clipboard.

At A Glance

• New multifocal contact lens and spectacle technologies are additions to the more traditional methods available to address the worldwide growth in the prevalence of myopia.
• New topical drops, both prescription and over the counter, add to the optometric therapeutic arsenal.
• A recently approved systemic drug may change management patterns for thyroid eye disease.

We are seeing an exponential surge in new trends, technologies, and treatments in optometry and hope to inspire some further research by giving you a high-level introduction to some of the up-and-comers in eye care.

MYOPIA CONTROL

Myopia is an age-old topic, but what is new is the growing prevalence of myopia worldwide. In 2000, the prevalence of myopia in the world population was estimated to be 22.9%, and that figure is projected to rise to 49.8% by 2050. 1 There are multiple theories as to the cause of this growth, including increasing screen time and decreasing time spent outdoors among young people. Luckily, our evidenced-based and validated treatment options for myopia control are also steadily increasing.

Soft Contact Lenses

In 2020, the FDA approved MiSight 1 day (CooperVision) lenses (Figure 1), making them the first daily disposable soft contact lenses labeled for slowing the progression of myopia. Clinical studies found that MiSight 1 day lenses provided a 59% reduction in myopia progression in comparison with a single-vision 1-day lens, as measured by spherical equivalent, and a 52% reduction in mean axial elongation. 2

Click to view larger

Figure 1. The ActivControl technology in MiSight 1 day lenses uses an optic zone concentric ring design with alternating vision correction zones and treatment zones. Two zones are vision correction zones with the label power of the contact lens, and the alternating two zones are treatment zones with 2.00 D of defocus to slow the progression of myopia. (Image courtesy of CooperVision.)

Gas Permeable Contact Lenses

Orthokeratology (ortho-k) has been used at least since the 1960s in the management of myopia. The first rigid gas permeable lens for ortho-k, Paragon CRT (CooperVision Specialty EyeCare), received FDA approval in 2002, 3 and products and options have continued to grow since then. In May of this year, Johnson & Johnson Vision announced FDA approval of its Acuvue Abiliti Overnight Therapeutic Lenses for the management of myopia. 4 That same month, CooperVision announced that its Procornea DreamLite night lenses for ortho-k had received the CE Mark from European regulators for slowing the progression of myopia in children and young adults. 5 CooperVision also announced this year that it has begun offering 5-mm customization of the back optic zone diameter for increased efficacy for its Paragon CRT and CRT Dual-Axis lenses in myopia management strategies. 6

Many doctors have been prescribing atropine off-label for myopia control. Vyluma, a newly formed subsidiary of Nevakar, announced in May that the phase 3 CHAMP trial of its pharmaceutical atropine eye drop NVK002 is in late stages in the United States and Europe. 7 The drop has the potential to be an FDA-approved pharmacologic method for myopia control, the company suggested.

Spectacle Correction

Glasses don’t work for myopia control, right? Perhaps it’s time to think again.

Essilor announced in May that it has been granted breakthrough device designation by the FDA for its Stellest spectacle lens to correct and slow the progression of myopia. 8 Data from a pivotal clinical trial presented at this year’s Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology meeting demonstrated that, at 2 years follow-up, Essilor’s highly aspheric lenslet target (HALT) technology, worn at least 12 hours per day, slowed myopia progression by 67% in comparison with single-vision lens wear. After 1 year in the ongoing 3-year trial, eye growth in children wearing the Stellest lenses was similar to or slower than that in nonmyopic children, according to Essilor. 9

Also in May, researchers at Hoya and the Centre for Myopia Research in Hong Kong published follow-up data on the company’s MiyoSmart spectacle lenses with patented defocus incorporated multiple segments (DIMS) technology, showing that wearing the DIMS lens slowed the progression of myopia by 52% and axial length growth by 62% at 2 years in comparison with single-vision lens wear. 10

CONTACT LENSES

In addition to the contact lenses for myopia control discussed above, a number of new conventional contact lens models have come to the market recently.

The silicone hydrogel material of the daily disposable Bausch + Lomb Infuse lens (Bausch + Lomb; Figure 2) is infused with a proprietary combination of ingredients designed to promote comfort, inspired by the Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society’s DEWS II report, according to the company. 11 The infused ingredients include osmoprotectants and electrolytes to help maintain ocular surface homeostasis and moisturizers to help retain hydration and maintain tear proteins in a healthy state, the company states.

Figure 2. The Bausch + Lomb Infuse contact lens, a silicone hydrogel daily disposable, helps to address contact lens dryness, according to the company. (Image courtesy of Bausch + Lomb.)

Alcon added cylinder correction to its Precision1 one-day contact lenses for its toric Precision1 for Astigmatism line (Alcon). The lens settles in less than 60 seconds within 3° of ideal orientation and has a 99% first-fit success rate, according to the company. 12

Johnson & Johnson Vision introduced an upgrade to its Acuvue Oasys Multifocal Lens , now including a Pupil Optimized Design. The new design optimizes parameters for patient age and refraction, according to the company, improving performance and comfort. 13

We also now have a large selection of options for our astigmatic presbyopic patients, with Biofinity toric and Biofinity XR toric lenses (CooperVision) 14 and Bausch + Lomb Ultra Multifocal for Astigmatism lenses. 15

There are several innovations in the development pipeline aiming to use contact lens technology as a platform to achieve goals such as monitoring IOP, 16 displaying augmented reality, 17 and fostering corneal wound healing. 18

The high-concept contact lens technology that may be closest to reaching the US market is an antiallergy drug-eluting lens being developed by Johnson & Johnson Vision. Acuvue Theravision with Ketotifen (Figure 3)releases an H1 histamine receptor antagonist to reduce itching due to allergies and improve lens comfort. The device has received regulatory approval in Japan and Canada. 19

Figure 3. Acuvue Theravision with Ketotifen is a medication-releasing contact lens for patients in Japan and Canada who need vision correction and itchy eye relief. (Image courtesy of Johnson & Johnson Vision.)

We are lucky to be in a profession where there is continual innovation to allow us to better treat our patients. Let’s look at a few new eye drops—in addition to the myopia control drops discussed above—that have expanded our arsenal in the past 2 years.

In June, Santen received FDA approval for its formulation of cyclosporine 0.1% ophthalmic emulsion (Verkazia) for the treatment of vernal keratoconjunctivitis (VKC) in children and adults. 20 The formulation’s oil-in-water cationic emulsion provides improved ocular bioavailability of cyclosporine, according to the company. It works by inhibiting T-cell activation, which controls allergic response and inflammation. The drops can be used over a sustained period of time, which means that steroids can be reduced. Recommended dosage is four times daily, and the product is approved for use in children as young as 4 years.

The FDA approved loteprednol etabonate ophthalmic suspension 0.25% ( Eysuvis , Kala Pharmaceuticals) for the short-term treatment of the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease in October 2020. 21 It became the first ocular corticosteroid approved specifically for the treatment of dry eye disease and the first approved specifically for short-term (up to 2 weeks) treatment of the signs and symptoms of dry eye disease. The drop, dosed four times daily, uses the company’s proprietary mucus-penetrating particle drug delivery technology (Ampplify) to enhance bioavailability of the active ingredient at the target site, according to Kala.

Also approved last year was oxymetazoline HCl ophthalmic solution 0.1% ( Upneeq , RVL Pharmaceuticals), indicated for patients with acquired blepharoptosis who do not want to pursue surgical repair. 22 In two phase 3 trials, patients who received the drug once daily experienced statistically significant improvement in visual field compared to a placebo group (Figure 4). The drop is the only FDA-approved medical treatment for ptosis.

Figure 4. Examples of positive results after a first dose of oxymetazoline for blepharoptosis. (Image courtesy of RVL Pharmaceuticals.)

Itching for more over-the-counter (OTC) allergy drops? Alcon’s suite of products containing olopatadine is now available OTC: Pataday Once Daily Relief Extra Strength (formerly Pazeo), Pataday Once Daily Relief (formerly Pataday), and Pataday Twice Daily Relief (formerly Patanol). 23 Further expanding the shelf, in September 2020 the FDA approved ketotifen fumarate ophthalmic solution 0.035% antihistamine ( Alaway Preservative Free , Bausch + Lomb), which became the first OTC preservative-free eye drop formulation approved to relieve symptoms of allergy. 24

Reproxalap ophthalmic solution 0.25% (Aldeyra Therapeutics) is a RASP inhibitor, which could be the next category of antiinflammatory medications in eye care. 25-27 It targets early, upstream proinflammatory signaling cascades and is showing promise in several ocular conditions such as dry eye, allergic conjunctivitis, and uveitis.

SYSTEMIC DRUG

In January 2020, teprotumumab-trbw ( Tepezza , Horizon Therapeutics) became the first drug FDA-approved for the treatment of thyroid eye disease (TED). 28 Teprotumumab is a fully human monoclonal antibody and a targeted inhibitor of the insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor. In a phase 3 clinical trial, teprotumumab was shown to improve proptosis, diplopia, and quality of life in patients with TED. 29 This finding puts to rest the watch-and-wait mentality traditionally applied to patients with TED.

There may also be applications for this new drug in patients with long-standing, chronic TED. 30 This is an excellent example of a situation in which optometry must have an open mind to incorporate new therapeutics. It is crucial that we stay ever-vigilant to detecting ocular conditions early in the disease state, knowing that we are in many cases the gate-keepers and primary care physicians of eye care.

PRESBYOPIA DROPS … SOON?

The race for an FDA approval of a topical presbyopia treatment is on, and Allergan appears to be in the lead. The company in February submitted a new drug application to the FDA for its investigational eye drop, AGN-190584, for the treatment of presbyopia, and the FDA is expected to act on the application by the end of this year. 31 The drop is an optimized formulation of pilocarpine 1.25% delivered in a proprietary vehicle. It is administered once daily, and the proposed mechanism of action is through contraction of the iris sphincter muscle to enhance depth of focus and improve near and intermediate visual acuity while maintaining some pupillary response to light. AGN-190584 also contracts the ciliary muscle to facilitate accommodation, according to the company.

But Allergan is not alone. Many companies are in hot pursuit of their own presbyopia treatment drops. Others rising to the challenge include: Eyenovia, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Ocuphire Pharma, Orasis Pharmaceuticals, OSRX Pharmaceuticals, Lenz Therapeutics (formerly Presbyopia Therapies), and Visus Therapeutics. For a recent review, see “ Answering the Call of Presbyopic Patients ” by Selina R. McGee, OD, FAAO, and Melissa Barnett, OD, FAAO, FSLS, FBCLA, from the January/February 2021 issue of Modern Optometry .

Cataract surgery is increasingly becoming an opportunity to enhance patients’ vision and treat other ocular pathologies. Multifocal IOL technologies continue to evolve and improve with new options to match the visual demands of patients. The biggest trend seems to be toward lenses that provide improvement at intermediate distances but not enough power for clear vision at the typical near working distance. By giving up the hard near focus of more traditional multifocal IOLs, it appears that these extended range of vision lenses can avoid some of the glare and halos occasionally experienced with full-range multifocal options.

The Acrysof IQ Vivity (Alcon; Figure 5), introduced in January and described by the company not as a multifocal but rather as a “nondiffractive extended depth of focus IOL,” is an example of this type of lens option. In clinical trials of the lens, 94% of patients reported having good or very good vision at distance, and 92% reported having good or very good vision at arm’s length. Starbursts, halos, and glare were comparable to those experienced with a monofocal lens. 32

Figure 5. The AcrySof IQ Vivity IOL uses Alcon’s proprietary non-diffractive X-Wave technology to stretch and shift light without splitting it. (Image courtesy of Alcon.)

A novel implantable technology that may indicate the shape of things to come is the R-TASC smart active IOL (Swiss Advanced Vision; Figure 6). If this development program comes to fruition, it could produce the world’s first active electronic IOL implant. The company’s aim is to develop a smart, real-time autofocus, solar-powered, multifocal IOL. The autofocus system would detect the distance of objects and trigger the transfer of liquid in or out of the lens optic, modifying the power of the IOL. The company’s website gives no indication of the phase of development. 33

Figure 6. The high-concept R-TASC IOL would be equipped with an autofocus system that detects the distance of objects. (Image courtesy of Swiss Advanced Vision.)

A PROFESSION RIPE WITH INNOVATION

With the products discussed here and additional releases sure to come in the near future, we have many new treatments and technologies to offer our patients, and we can look forward to more. Look for information in upcoming issues of Modern Optometry to help you embrace this bright future.

• 1. Holden BA, Fricke TR, Wilson DA, et al. Global prevalence of myopia and high myopia and temporal trends from 2000 through 2050. Ophthalmology . 2016;123(5):1036-1042.
• 2. Our products. MiSight 1 day. CooperVision. coopervision.com/practitioner/our-products/misight-1-day/misight-1-day. Accessed August 4, 2021.
• 3. Premarket Approval. Paragon CRT. Food and Drug Administration. June 13, 2002. www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfpma/pma.cfm?id=P870024S043. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 4. Johnson & Johnson Vision announces FDA approval of Acuvue Abiliti Overnight Therapeutic Lenses for myopia management. Eyewire News. May 12, 2021. eyewire.news/articles/johnson-johnson-vision-announces-fda-approval-of-acuvue-abiliti-overnight-therapeutic-lenses-for-myopia-management/. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 5. CooperVision DreamLite® Ortho-K lenses gain European approval for slowing progression of myopia [press release]. CooperVision Specialty EyeCare. May 25, 2021. coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-dreamlite-ortho-k-lenses-gain-european-approval. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 6. CooperVision Specialty EyeCare announces 5 mm BOZD customization for Paragon CRT® and CRT Dual Axis® Lenses [press release]. CooperVision Specialty EyeCare. January 19, 2021. coopervision.com/our-company/news-center/press-release/coopervision-specialty-eyecare-announces-5-mm-bozd. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 7. Vyluma Inc. launches with robust ophthalmic portfolio, leading with a pharmaceutical treatment in phase III for myopia [press release]. Vyluma. May 25, 2021. vyluma.com/press_release/vyluma-inc-launches-with-robust-ophthalmic-portfolio-leading-with-a-pharmaceutical-treatment-in-phase-iii-for-myopia/. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 8. Essilor receives FDA “breakthrough device” designation for Essilor Stellest, its new generation of spectacle lens solutions in the fight against myopia [press release]. Essilor. May 17, 2021. www.essilor.com/en/medias/press-releases/essilor-receives-fda-breakthrough-device-designation-for-essilor-stellest-its-new-generation-of-spectacle-lens-solutions-in-the-fight-against-myopia/. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 9. New results on Essilor Stellest lens to be presented at the annual meeting of the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO 2021) [press release]. Essilor. April 4, 2021. www.essilor.com/en/medias/press-releases/new-results-on-essilor-stellest-lens-to-be-presented-at-the-annual-meeting-of-the-association-for-research-in-vision-and-ophthalmology-arvo-2021/. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 10. Lam CSY, Tang WC, Tse DY, et al. Defocus incorporated multiple segments (DIMS) spectacle lenses slow myopia progression: a 2-year randomised clinical trial. Br J Ophthalmol . 2020;104(3):363-368.
• 11. Bausch + Lomb Infuse. www.bauschinfuse.com/ecp/. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 12. MyAlcon Professionals. Precision1 for Astigmatism. professional.myalcon.com/contact-lenses/daily/precision-astigmatism/. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 13. Acuvue Oasys Multifocal With Pupil Optimized Design. Johnson & Johnson Vision. www.jnjvisionpro.com/products/acuvue-oasys-multifocal#product_information. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 14. Biofinity toric and Biofinity XR toric. CooperVision. coopervision.com/practitioner/our-products/biofinity-family/biofinity-toric-biofinity-xr-toric. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 15. Bausch + Lomb Ultra contact lenses. Bausch + Lomb. www.expectultracomfort.com/ecp/lens-parameters. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 16. Smart contact lenses have potential to monitor, treat glaucoma. Cleveland Clinic. Consult QD. September 9, 2020. consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/smart-contact-lenses-have-potential-to-monitor-treat-glaucoma/. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 17. AR contact lens wins CES’ Last Gadget Standing competition. Las Vegas Review-Journal. January 12, 2021. www.reviewjournal.com/business/conventions/ces/ar-contact-lens-wins-ces-last-gadget-standing-competition-2251189/. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 18. UNH researchers create a hydrogel contact lens to treat serious eye disease. University of New Hampshire Newsroom. March 12, 2019. www.unh.edu/unhtoday/news/release/2019/03/12/unh-researchers-create-hydrogel-contact-lens-treat-serious-eye-disease. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 19. Johnson & Johnson Vision receives approval in Canada for first drug-releasing contact lens for vision correction and allergic eye itch. Eyewire News. April 27, 2021. eyewire.news/articles/johnson-johnson-vision-receives-approval-in-canada-for-first-drug-releasing-contact-lens-for-vision-correction-and-allergic-eye-itch/. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 20. Santen receives FDA approval for Verkazia (cyclosporine ophthalmic emulsion) 0.1% for the treatment of vernal keratoconjunctivitis in children and adults [press release]. Santen. June 24, 2021. www.businesswire.com/news/home/20210624005365/en/Santen-Receives-FDA-Approval-for-Verkazia%E2%84%A2-Cyclosporine-Ophthalmic-Emulsion-0.1-for-the-Treatment-of-Vernal-Keratoconjunctivitis-in-Children-and-Adults. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 21. Kala Pharmaceuticals receives FDA approval of dry eye disease treatment Eysuvis. Eyewire News. October 20, 2020. eyewire.news/articles/kala-pharmaceuticals-announces-fda-approval-of-dry-eye-disease-treatment-eysuvis/#:~:text=The%20FDA%20on%20Tuesday%20approved,symptoms%20of%20dry%20eye%20disease. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 22. Osmotica Pharmaceuticals plc receives FDA approval for Upneeq (oxymetazoline hydrochloride ophthalmic solution), 0.1% for acquired blepharoptosis (droopy eyelid) in adults [press release]. Osmotica Pharmaceuticals. July 9, 2020. ir.osmotica.com/news-releases/news-release-details/osmotica-pharmaceuticals-plc-receives-fda-approval-upneeqtm. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 23. Pataday Once Daily Relief Extra Strength. Now available without a prescription. MyAlconProfessionals. https://professional.myalcon.com/eye-care/ocular-allergies/pataday/. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 24. FDA approves Bausch + Lomb Alaway Preservative Free OTC drops. Eyewire News. September 25, 2020. eyewire.news/articles/fda-approves-bausch-lomb-alaway-preservative-free-ophthalmic-solution/. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 25. Mandell KJ, Clark D, Chu DS, Foster CS, Sheppard J, Brady TC. Randomized phase 2 trial of reproxalap, a novel reactive aldehyde species inhibitor, in patients with noninfectious naterior uveitis: model for corticosteroid replacement. J Ocul Pharmacol Ther . 2020;36(10):732-739.
• 26. Clark D, Cavanagh B, Shields AL, Karpecki P, Sheppard J, Brady TC. Clinically relevant activity of the novel RASP inhibitor reproxalap in allergic conjunctivitis: the phase 3 ALLEVIATE trial. Am J Ophthalmol . 2021;230:60-67.
• 27. Clark D, Tauber J, Shepard J, Brady TC. Early onset and broad activity of reproxalap in a randomized, double-masked, vehicle-controlled phase 2b trial in dry eye disease. Am J Ophthalmol . 2021;226:22-31.
• 28. FDA approves first treatment for thyroid eye disease [press release]. Food and Drug Administration. January 21, 2020. www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-treatment-thyroid-eye-disease. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 29. Douglas RS, Kahaly GJ, Patel A, et al. Teprotumumab for the treatment of active thyroid eye disease. N Engl J Med . 2020;382(4):341-352.
• 30. Ozzello DJ, Kikkawa DO, Korn BS. Early experience with teprotumumab for chronic thyroid eye disease. Am J Ophthalmol Case Rep . 2020;19:100744. Published 2020 May 15.
• 31. Allergan, an AbbVie Company, submits new drug application for investigational AGN-190584 for the treatment of presbyopia [press release]. Allergan. February 25, 2021. news.abbvie.com/news/press-releases/allergan-an-abbvie-company-submits-new-drug-application-for-investigational-agn-190584-for-treatment-presbyopia.htm. Accessed August 5, 2021.
• 32. Alcon announces launch of AcrySof IQ Vivity, the first and only non-diffractive extended depth of focus intraocular lens in the U.S [press release]. Alcon. January 7, 2021. www.alcon.com/media-release/alcon-announces-launch-acrysof-iq-vivity-first-and-only-non-diffractive-extended. Accessed August 9, 2021.
• 33. R-TASC Smart Active Intraocular Lens for Cataract Surgery. Swiss Advanced Vision Intraocular Lens. sav-iol.com/r-tasc/. Accessed August 9, 2021.

Owner, Envision Optometry, Boston Editor and Founder, 20/20 Glance Member, Modern Optometry Editorial Advisory Board [email protected]; Instagram: @2020glance, @envisionboston Financial disclosure: Speaker/Advisor (Allergan, Dompe, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Orasis Pharmaceuticals, Tarsus, Zeiss)

Associate Optometrist, Eye Associates Northwest, Seattle [email protected]; Instagram: @rnhabibi Financial disclosure: None

Lead Optometrist, Associated Eye Care, Stillwater, Minnesota Member, Modern Optometry Editorial Advisory Board [email protected]; Instagram: @seeoneteachone Financial disclosure: Speaker/Advisor (Allergan, Avellino, Horizon Therapeutics, Novartis Pharmaceuticals, Orasis Pharmaceuticals, Scope Eyecare, Sun Pharma, AOS)

Most Popular

Expand Your Opportunities for Profitability

Christopher Lopez, OD

Blessings and Opportunities

Selina R. McGee, OD, FAAO; Justin Schweitzer, OD, FAAO; and Walter O. Whitley, OD, MBA, FAAO

Branding and Promotional Strategies That Work

Ryan Cazares, OD; Hardeep K. Kataria, OD, FAAO; Scott Moscow, OD; and Jennifer Wademan, OD

10 Tips for Optimizing Your Coding and Billing

Thomas R. Cheezum, OD, CPC, COPC

Vision is one of our most valuable senses. At UC Berkeley’s Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry & Vision Science, world-renowned faculty are exploring a rich array of research questions relating to how we see and why vision fails. The answers have the potential to change lives. Please use the buttons below to explore research degree programs and opportunities at Berkeley Optometry & Vision Science.

Vision Science Program

Investigators in Vision Science conduct human and animal research and modeling, yielding cutting-edge discoveries and applications in disciplines that include molecular genetics, clinical care, adaptive optics, neurobiology, cell biology, infectious disease, bioengineering, perception, and public health.

Clinical Research Center

Our goals are to explore new models and strategies for diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of ocular anomalies by conducting patient-based clinical studies/trials, as well as translational research. We also provide training for young professionals who are interested in, or want to pursue careers in, clinical research. We welcome undergraduates, optometry students, and post-doctoral fellows to become involved with our research team. The availability of these positions is dependent on our active projects.

Research Opportunities for OD Students

We offer current OD students a summer research training program funded by the National Eye Institute (NEI), as well as an option to graduate with honors for students who choose to submit a research dissertation or a scholarly case report.

Research Opportunities for Undergraduate Students

URAP The Undergraduate Research Apprentice Program (URAP) pairs faculty who need research assistance with undergraduates eager to engage in advanced research. New research projects are listed each term. Academic credit is available.

ViSUR The Vision Science Summer Undergraduate Research (ViSUR) Program is an 8-week in-person program that allows undergraduate students to work in a lab with a faculty advisor on a research project. Each student will receive a stipend of $5,000. Click the button below to learn more.

• Guidance for Professional Practice
• Clinical Management Guidelines
• Optometrists' Formulary
• Clinical advice service
• Clinical files
• Guidance for therapeutics
• Supplementary guidance
• Using Evidence in Practice
• Position statements
• Ethical scenarios
• Introduction to CPD
• Online learning
• Peer discussion and peer review
• Docet distance learning
• Independent prescribing (IP) qualification
• Higher qualifications
• Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics (OPO)
• Optometry In Practice
• Career pathways in optometry
• Research Excellence Awards
• Financial support for College members undertaking research
• Library and information services
• Fellowship by Portfolio
• Scheme for Registration
• New route to qualification
• Assessors, examiners and supervisors
• Optometry students
• International pre-registration trainees
• Sector Partnership for Optical Knowledge and Education (SPOKE)
• A career in optometry
• Join us today
• Membership categories and fees
• Request a change of membership category
• Full range of member benefits
• Reclaim your tax
• Member resources
• Locum resources
• Life and Honorary Fellowship (FCOptom)
• Taking a career break
• Member Code of Conduct
• The Benevolent Fund
• Shaping eye care
• Advancing optometry
• Championing the profession
• Patient leaflets and resources
• Get the College app
• Expert witnesses
• Compassion in practice
• About Acuity
• Download the journal
• Get involved

The latest research

Here we summarise three research papers from a recent issue of Optometry in Practice.

Dissemination of research

Dr Rakhee Shah MCOptom, Dr Amy Sheppard MCOptom

This paper provides an introduction to disseminating clinical research in optometry. The dissemination of research is a key step on the path towards knowledge translation and practice change.

Presenting research at professional conferences and meetings through oral and poster presentations allows for the rapid dissemination of research findings.

Optometrists engaging in clinical or practice-based research should consider publication of their research in peer-reviewed journals to ensure their findings are widely available.

This is the second of two papers guiding optometrists in practice- based research in optometry.

Sign in to continue

Not already a member of the college.

Start enjoying the benefits of College membership today. Take a look at what the College can offer you and view our membership categories and rates.

Related further reading

Optometrists and ophthalmologists update their joint care vision.

Our vision for better integrated eye care services

Public urged to wear their glasses for night driving

Nearly a quarter of UK drivers who have been advised to wear glasses while driving admit to not wearing them behind the wheel.

COVID-19: Patient support and information during lockdown

Our growing range of resources will ensure that you can provide the best possible patient care during these uncertain times. 

Become an Inspiring Future ODs Ambassador!            LEARN MORE

• futureeyedoc.org
• ASCO Learning Center
• Optometry Admission Test
• Optometry Programs Admissions Directory
• Residency Programs
• ASCOConnect
• Meetings & Events
• Sponsorship Opportunities

• Current Students »
• Graduate Education and Research »
• Graduate Education and Research

Graduate education can lead to satisfying careers in academia and research, as well as in industry, the military, government and private practice. Scroll down to see current topics of research at schools and colleges of optometry, descriptions of research classifications, funding opportunities, and information on the translational science spectrum.

List of Graduate Programs

List of graduate programs at optometry schools and colleges

Graduate Programs & Enrollment Figures

More detailed descriptions of graduate programs and enrollment figures

Careers in Optometric Research

Watch a video to learn more about careers in optometric research

Research Topics

NIH/NEI (T35) National Research Service Award, Short-Term Institutional Research Training Grants: The goal of this training program is to support short-term research training for students in health professional schools during the summer, or for predoctoral and/or postdoctoral training in focused, often emerging scientific areas: researchtraining.nih.gov/programs/training-grants/T35

Research Types

Reference: https://ncats.nih.gov

Funding Your Graduate Training

Optometry Students      Grad Students           Faculty            

Other funding resources can be found at ARVO’s funding guide: https://www.arvo.org/journals-and-publications/arvo-funding-guide/

Training Pathways

The full spectrum of biomedical research ranges from basic laboratory discoveries to clinical applications and public health policy. Eye and vision research programs at schools and colleges of optometry span the entire range of translational research possibilities—from the fundamental basis and mechanisms of vision, to eye diseases, their diagnosis and treatment, and the impact of public health policies on our communities.

NIH Graphic: https://ncats.nih.gov/translation/spectrum#translational-science-spectrum

Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry

Postal address: 143 Rollins Ave #2046 Rockville, MD 20847

Tel: (301) 231-5944 Fax: (301) 770-1828 About ASCO / Contact Us

• Professional Development
• Faculty Directory
• Data & Reports
• Optometric Education Leadership Institute
• Committees, Task Forces, SIGs & Groups
• International Optometric Education
• Clinical Preceptors’ Toolkit
• ASCO Policy Guidelines & Reports
• Jobs / Careers
• Career Opportunities for Doctors of Optometry in Academia
• Interprofessional Education and Collaborative Practice
• ASCO Inspiring Future ODs Ambassador Program
• Resources for Applicants and Advisors
• ASCO Member Schools and Colleges
• Associate Member Schools
• Speaker Series Sponsored by Johnson & Johnson Vision
• Diversity and Inclusion Resources
• Anti-Racism Compiled Resource List
• ASCO Cultural Competence
• Optometry Summer Programs
• Data & Surveys
• Resolutions
• Eye on Optometry Blog
• Additional Resources
• The Journal of Optometric Education
• ASCO Staff Contact Information
• Executive Committee and Board of Directors
• Strategic Plan
• ASCO Code of Ethics and Statement of Values
• Thank You Sponsors!

The Journal of Optometry (J Optom) is the scientific double blind peer-reviewed publication of the Spanish General Council of Optometry ( www.cgcoo.es ). Audience of J Optom includes optometrists, ophthalmologists and visual scientists, other professionals and researchers with interests in vision and the eye as well as undergraduate and post-graduate students in those fields. The J Optom welcomes the submission of original manuscripts, reviews, case reports and scientific letters describing clinical and experimental research in all fields related with the eye and vision. Journal of Optometry is an open access journal that publishes articles in English.

Indexed in:

Web of Science, Clarivate Emerging Sources Citation Index (ESCI) Pubmed/Medline, Pubmed/Pubmed Central, Índice Bibliográfico Español en Ciencias de la Salud, CrossRef, Directory of Open Access Journals (DOAJ), Index Copernicus, National Library of Medicine Catalog (NLM Catalog), SCImago Journal Rank, Google Scholar and Scopus

The Impact Factor measures the average number of citations received in a particular year by papers published in the journal during the two preceding years. © Clarivate Analytics, Journal Citation Reports 2022

CiteScore measures average citations received per document published.

SRJ is a prestige metric based on the idea that not all citations are the same. SJR uses a similar algorithm as the Google page rank; it provides a quantitative and qualitative measure of the journal's impact.

SNIP measures contextual citation impact by wighting citations based on the total number of citations in a subject field.

• Subscribe to our newsletter
• Myopia progression in children during home confinement in the COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis
• Challenges and impact of COVID-19 lockdown on Indian optometry practice: A survey-based study
• Acute community ophthalmology services provided by independent prescribing optometrists supporting hospital eye services during the COVID-19 outbreak
• The impact of COVID-19 on global contact lens education

• Instructions for authors
• Submit an article
• Ethics in publishing
• Open Access Option
• Language Editing services

• Last published articles
• Current Issue
• Special issues & Supl.
• Aims and scope
• Editorial Board
• Advertising
• Most often read
• Most popular
• All metrics

Are you a health professional able to prescribe or dispense drugs?

2 Commerce Drive Cranbury, NJ 08512

609-716-7777

Global optometrist top 200 research ranking

Affiliations.

• 1 School of Optometry and Vision Science, Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Australia.
• 2 Eurolens Research, Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK.
• 3 Centre for Ocular Research & Education (CORE), School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada.
• 4 Centre for Eye and Vision Research (CEVR), Hong Kong Polytechnic University, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.
• 5 Department of Materials, Imperial College London, London, UK.
• 6 School of Optometry, The University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, USA.
• PMID: 33689668
• DOI: 10.1080/08164622.2021.1878863

Clinical relevance : Clinical optometric practice is underpinned by a rigorous research base, the primary evidence for which is publications in refereed scientific journals. Leading optometrists who publish this work should be identified and celebrated. Background : This work aims to derive publication metrics of the leading optometric researchers worldwide. Methods : An extensive global search was conducted to discover leading optometric researchers; 480 names were identified. A custom-designed bibliographic search tool was developed to interrogate the Scopus database (Elsevier) and extract publication metrics using the unique Scopus Author Identifier number for each optometrist. On 13 January 2021, the full list was reduced to 200 optometrists (the 'Top 200') ranked by h-index - the 'Global Optometrist Top 200 Research Ranking'. The output from the custom tool automatically updates every 24 hours and is available at www.optomrankings.com. Results : The Top 200 have h-indices ranging from 20 to 67 and have published between 28 and 440 papers. Sixty one (30.5%) are women. Konrad Pesudovs has the highest h-index (67) and citations (51,193). The most prolific author is Robert Hess (442 papers). David Piñero is publishing at the fastest rate (17.6 papers per year). The Top 200 work in 13 nations, of whom 172 (86.0%) work in four nations: USA - 76 (38.0%), Australia - 43 (21.5%), UK - 41 (20.5%) and Canada - 16 (8.0%). Of the 72 institutions represented, the University of California, Berkeley, USA is home to the most Top 200 optometrists (17) and has the highest combined h-index of Top 200 optometrists (132). Conclusions : The optometric profession is supported by a robust research base, prosecuted by a large international cohort of optometric researchers who publish extensively on a broad range of ophthalmic issues and whose work is highly cited. The 200 most impactful optometrists in the world are identified.

Keywords: Citations; global optometrist research ranking; h-index; publication metrics.

• Bibliometrics
• Databases, Factual
• Optometrists*

An official website of the United States government

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

• Publications
• Account settings
• Advanced Search
• Journal List
• v.4(4); 2011 Oct

Research in Optometry: A challenge and a chance

Investigación en optometría: un reto y una oportunidad.

In the last years, the number of optometrists publishing research works in journals with high impact factor has increased significantly. However, this increase in the quantity of researchers in Optometry has not been accompanied by a growing number of scientific journals on Optometry. There is still the habit of sending scientific optometric manuscripts to high-factor Ophthalmology journals with the aim of obtaining a better recognition of the efforts performed by the researchers and achieving a more significant spreading of the scientific content. This facilitates the consolidation of a great amount of Ophthalmology journals, a growing number of journals in the field and subsequently a stagnation or even reduction of the impact factor of the limited number of scientific journals in Optometry 1 , 2 . Optometry researchers need recognized journals where reporting the outcomes of their investigations. This is one of the aims of Journal of Optometry , the scientific peer-reviewed publication of the Spanish General Council of Optometrists.

Several European journals on vision and Ophthalmology are currently available. Each year they published a lot of articles that show the results of Optometric investigations, such as the developments of new tests for measuring visual acuity or contrast sensitivity, the validation of several diagnostic devices that are mainly used by optometrists, epidemiologic studies about refractive errors, the characterization of ocular aberrations in different types of populations, changes in binocular vision after some refractive surgery treatments, or the analysis of the outcomes with specific types of contact lenses. All this research is the result of our knowledge, with or without the input of other scientific areas. Therefore, it seems more coherent to fit all this scientific content in Optometry journals. The problem arises when attempting to find an Optometry journal in Europe with impact factor. American and Australian institutions are the most productive centers of optometric research and receive the highest average number of citations/year 3 . Furthermore, the highest impact factor of Optometry journals corresponds to two journals from United States of America (USA) and New Zealand, respectively ( Optometry and Vision Science / Clinical and Experimental Optometry ) 4 . We are working hard from the Journal of Optometry in the attempt of developing a high quality journal on Optometry that may be a reference of the European Optometry. However, to achieve this aim raw material is needed, researches in Optometry.

The research is a challenge and a chance to show everyone the scientific potential of optometrists. It allows us to improve our clinical procedures and protocols, to implement functional therapies, to expand our knowledge. Research is the future of our profession; it will lead us to an even higher recognition and to a better professional position; it will lead us to a more optimized clinical practice. Research is the result of the power of our knowledge and also a source for new inspiration and advances. If we do our own research we are by definition the leaders in all of those efforts, from the bench to the chair side. Therefore, the development of Optometry research is a critical factor for the future of our profession. The support from governments and universities for Optometry research is crucial in the same manner that the research in other sciences is supported 5 , 6 . Furthermore, we need our platform for reporting our research, more journals with impact factor in Optometry.

Optometrist researchers should contribute to Optometry journals in order to make them greater, to increase the impact factor of the current available journals, and to develop our profession. One excellent opportunity for this contribution to Optometry research and to show our great potential is the next Special Issue of Journal of Optometry (July-September 2012). This issue entitled “New technologies and diagnostic tools in Optometry” will provide an overview of recent researches about the development, validity, and clinical applicability evaluation of new technologies in the context of our profession. International leading scientists in the Optometry field will participate as Topical Editor (Sitiris Plainis, Greece) and Guest Editors (Alejandro Cerviño, Spain, and Hema Radhakrishnan, UK) in this important issue. Submission deadline for this issue is 31st March 2012.

There are still thousands of questions without answer in Optometry that represents our future and the advance of vision care. The luxury of getting to answer those questions makes for a great job and ultimately a great profession of Optometry.

The Optometry lives in its own research.

• Melbourne School of Health Sciences

Optometry and Vision Sciences Research

Anterior eye, clinical trials and research translation unit.

The Anterior Eye, Clinical Trials and Research Translation unit adopts an integrated approach to research in ocular disease, combining clinical, laboratory and behavioural science as a foundation for evidence-based practice to improve clinical outcomes.

• Advancing eye care for people with AMD through integrating clinical research and its translation
• An integrated approach to improving the primary clinical care of patients with early stages of AMD
• Modulation of the anterior eye inflammatory response to treat dry eye disease

Clinical Psychophysics Unit

Our research aims to better understand normal visual processing and damage due to disease.

• Development of open source tools for vision research
• Improving clinical tests for diagnosis and management of vision loss (imaging and perimetry)
• Vision in migraine
• Visual perception in migraineUnderstanding visual processing in aging and development

Corneal and Ocular Immunology Unit

The mouse and human cornea contains populations of resident immune cells such as macrophages and dendritic cells. These cells play an important role in generating innate inflammatory responses against microbial pathogens and sterile injurious stimuli.

Eye Movement Laboratory

The Eye Movement Laboratory addresses a range of problems relating to eye movement control in both clinical populations as well as in normal subjects.

• Eye movements in neurodegenerative disease
• Pupillary Indicators of Fatigue
• Saccadic Eye Movements

Imaging Retinal Cells Human Unit

Our broad research aim is to understand the fundamental workings of the living retina on the microscopic scale, and how this becomes compromised in sight-debilitating diseases such as diabetes and glaucoma.

• Functional assessment of individual photoreceptors in the human eye
• Longitudinal investigation of neurovascular dysregulation and capillary angiopathy in young people with diabetes

Learning and Teaching Laboratory

Our research is directed at identifying and implementing best practice innovative teaching strategies to enhance learning and teaching across all programs within the Department of Optometry and Vision Sciences, and externally through collaborative projects.

National Vision Research Institute

The National Vision Research Institute is dedicated to research aimed at better understanding the complexities of vision and its disorders. Our goals are preventing blindness and restoring sight.

Ocular Biomarker Laboratory

The Ocular Biomarker Laboratory is interested in ways in which we can utilise the unique attributes of the eye to inform us about cortical disease and drug development.

• Assessing novel compounds for diagnostic retinal imaging
• Developing iPad home-monitoring platforms for multiple sclerosis assessment
• In vivo physiological characterisation of Parkinson’s disease
• Using the eye as a window into Alzheimer’s disease
• Wireless electroretinography and visual evoked potentials for central nervous system drug testing

Ocular Physiology Laboratory

Our laboratory is interested in electrophysiology, imaging and developing novel methods for analysis and its application to understanding the risk factors for neurodegenerative diseases such as glaucoma.

• Developing novel ocular biomarkers for drug testing and neurodegenerative disease of the CNS
• Evaluation of vascular, glial and functional deficits in diabetic eye disease
• Investigating the role of intracranial pressure in glaucoma
• Understanding the role of blood pressure, vascular autoregulation in ageing and glaucoma
• Using our novel model of glaucoma to understand if ganglion cells can recover from injury

Optological Laboratory

The Optological Laboratory non-invasively investigates how the human eye and brain function, both in normal observers and those with eye disease.

• Analysing visual field data in macular disease
• Comparing oculomotor decision-making models for halting inappropriate actions
• Getting back on track after the unexpected happens: decision making in predictable and unpredictable environments
• The effect of intraocular pressure on retinal ganglion cell function
• The role of fixational eye movements in spatial vision
• Understanding progressive vision loss in the eye disease glaucoma

Retinal Structure and Function Laboratory

The Retinal Structure and Function Laboratory (RSFL) aims to increase our understanding of the link between structural and functional measures of damage in disease.

• A clinical test of dark adaptation for age-related macular degeneration
• Retinal structure and function in ageing and disease

Vision Optimisation Unit

The Vision Optimisation Unit aims to improve the vision of people with eye disease (particularly retinal disease), through medical vision restoration therapies, low vision aids, sensory substitution, and low vision rehabilitation

• Improving Patient Management Pathways in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
• Saving Sight Through Novel BioTech Innovations for Inherited Retinal Disease
• The Impact of Low Vision Assistive Technology on Mobility in People with Vision Impairment

Visual and Cognitive Neuroscience Laboratory

Our laboratory is interested in understanding the neural basis of visual perception, attention and memory.

• Functional microcircuitry of the primary Visual Cortex
• Neural Mechanisms of Attention
• Parallel Pathways in Vision
• Visual Attention, Reading & Dyslexia

Visual Functions Laboratory

This laboratory develops and applies behavioural and electrophysiological methods to better understand vision during development and ageing, as well as in the detection and monitoring of eye or systemic disease.

News alert: UC Berkeley has announced its next university librarian

Secondary menu

• Log in to your Library account
• Hours and Maps
• Connect from Off Campus
• UC Berkeley Home

Search form

Optometry: articles.

• Books & NBEO Prep
• Evaluating Resources
• Evidence-Based Practice
• Drug Information
• Eye Images and Videos
• Citation Management
• Wellness Resources

Search for Articles by Topic

OPTOMETRY AND BIOMEDICAL DATABASES

• PubMed: Search Tips
• PubMed Collection: Inequity in Vision Health and Health Care A curated collection of articles in PubMed. Many are freely available online.

Additional biomedical databases

BIOLOGY AND NEUROSCIENCE

PSYCHOLOGY AND COGNITIVE SCIENCE

GENERAL SCIENCE

• Google Scholar This link opens in a new window Search across many disciplines and sources including articles, theses, books, abstracts and court opinions, from academic publishers, professional societies, online repositories, universities and other web sites. more... less... Lists journal articles, books, preprints, and technical reports in many subject areas (though more specialized article databases may cover any given field more completely). Can be used with "Get it at UC" to access the full text of many articles.

MORE DATABASES

• More Optometry Databases ;
• More Vision Science Databases ;
• All UCB Databases, A-Z (1,468 as of July 18, 2023).

Search Operators and Tips

• Search Tips

Database Exercises

• PubMed Exercise
• Embase Exercise
• Web of Science: Cited Reference Search & Alerts
• "Pearl Growing" Exercise

COVID-19 Databases

• Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register "The Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register is a freely-available, continually-updated, annotated reference collection of human studies* on COVID-19, including interventional, observational, diagnostic, prognostic, epidemiological, qualitative and economic designs."
• COVID-evidence Database "COVID-evidence is a continuously updated We provide information about worldwide planned, ongoing, and completed trials on any intervention to treat or prevent SARS-CoV-2-infections." The database must be downloaded before it can be used.
• Homeland Security Digital Library COVID-19 Resource Archive The resource archive includes Federal, State, and Local Policy and Strategy Documents; Congressional Hearings and Legislation; CRS Reports & Issue Briefs and more. Search the collection or browse by topic: Public Health, Prevention, Preparedness, Response, Recovery, Global Health, and National Security.
• LitCovid A curated database of PubMed articles that tracks the latest scientific information about the 2019 novel Coronavirus. One can quickly search by General, Mechanism, Transmission, Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention, Case Report, and Forecasting.
• WHO COVID-19 Global Literature on Coronavirus Disease "The global literature cited in the WHO COVID-19 database is updated daily (Monday through Friday) from searches of bibliographic databases, hand searching, and the addition of other expert-referred scientific articles."

Find the PDF Copy of an Article

Conditions of Use for Electronic Resources

• Conditions of Use and Licensing Restrictions for Electronic Resources

PICO Framework for Optometry Research Questions

Population / problem examples: astigmatism, myopia, cataracts, eye tracking, children, adults, aged

Intervention examples: corrective lens, surgery

Comparison interventions are optional

Outcome examples: improved vision

Embase database has a handy PICO search form .

Boolean Operators

Use "OR" when combining terms within the same PICO frame.

Use "AND" when combining terms from different PICO frames.

The "NOT" operator is a very blunt instrument; avoid it most of the time.

• << Previous: Start
• Next: Books & NBEO Prep >>
• Last Updated: Mar 2, 2024 8:59 PM
• URL: https://guides.lib.berkeley.edu/optometry

• Skip to Content
• Skip to Main Navigation
• Skip to Search

Indiana University Indiana University IU

• Diversity Initiative
• Accreditation
• Strategic Plan, Mission, Vision & Goals
• Prerequisites
• Early Admission
• M.S. and Ph.D. Programs
• Graduate Certificate and Online M.B.A.
• Events and Recruitment
• Schedule a campus visit
• Scholarships and Awards
• Life in Bloomington
• Student Organizations
• Request Information
• Doctor of Optometry
• Ph.D. in Vision Science
• M.S. in Vision Science
• Residencies
• Community Outreach
• Pay Your Bill
• Atwater Eye Care Center
• Indianapolis Eye Care Center
• Emergency Eye Care
• Primary Care Exams
• Contact Lenses
• Eyewear Centers
• Pediatric Eye Care
• Specialty Services
• Dr. James E. and Linda K. Hunter Laser and Surgical Care Clinic
• Our Doctors
• What to Expect
• Patient Forms
• Terminology
• Medications
• Age-Related Macular Degeneration
• Refer a Patient

Research Areas

• Borish Center for Ophthalmic Research
• Research Opportunities
• Participate in a Study
• Oxyopia Vision Science Seminar
• Borish Scholars Program
• Ways to Give
• Alumni Awards
• Alumni Board Members
• Alumni Weekend 2024
• Get Involved
• Insight magazine
• Continuing Education
• People Directory
• Current Listings
• February Listings
• January Listings
• Final Exam Schedule
• Immunizations

School of Optometry

• Student Portal

Leading vision research in seven areas

From dry eye to traumatic brain injury, our research solves vision problems that plague the nation and the world. Our research faculty are leaders in their respective fields, and they regularly publish articles and present their work at national and international conferences.

Explore our research areas

Anterior segment disorders and dry eye.

Injuries, allergies, inflammation, dry eye, corneal disorders, cataracts, and presbyopia can affect the eye’s ability to focus.  Our researchers are discovering new ways to detect, diagnose, and correct anterior segment disorders, both with and without contact lenses. 

Glaucoma and visual function

Our researchers are developing new methods to improve the diagnosis and treatment of glaucoma, a disease that affects 70 million people worldwide and is most severe in the elderly and in underserved populations.

Retinal disease

Our faculty are internationally known for their contributions to the science of retinal function and disease, retinal imaging technology, color vision, and visual processing. Their developments in preventing vision loss and blindness have the potential to save the vision of millions of people worldwide.

Clinical optics and myopia

Through cutting-edge clinical optics research, our faculty are improving the vision and clinical care of patients at our own clinics and around the world. We often work closely with the leading members of the contact lens and vision care industry to develop novel, improved optical designs and safer, more efficient contact lenses.

Low vision and mobility

Loss of peripheral vision, low vision, balance problems, and contrast sensitivity all affect a patient’s daily quality of life. Through research, we’re advancing visual rehabilitation methods for patients who are elderly, visually impaired, or blind.

Pediatric vision

Our research leads to earlier detection of pediatric eye problems, such as amblyopia (or “lazy eye”), and easier treatments for children and their parents. We are also working toward understanding and preventing permanent vision loss in children.

Traumatic brain injury

The eyes are a window into concussions and other traumatic brain injuries, and our researchers are focused on diagnosing and managing those injuries before they cause significant damage.

Collaborative research labs

In addition to our individual successes in faculty research, we foster a collaborative research environment to accomplish the broadest scope of research with optimized research success and productivity.

For example, the Clinical Optics Research Lab (CORL) —dedicated to improving the vision and clinical care of patients through cutting-edge research—is a result of the efforts of several IU School of Optometry faculty members.

Our research helps the world see more clearly.

School of optometry resources and social media channels.

Research & Innovation

New England College of Optometry is more than a pioneering optometry school; we’re leaders in research and innovation in the ever-changing field of optometry. By staying up to date with the latest technologies and by understanding evolving patient expectations, we can provide quality, compassionate eye care to all.

NECO’s dedication to advancing the field gives future optometrists an unrivaled educational experience. Studying alongside forward-thinking faculty members helps prepare our students for tomorrow’s optometry.

Discoveries Happen Here

The field of optometry is rapidly evolving, and we’re a part of it.

Our Research

Among NECO’s research faculty, you’ll find a range of expertise and exploration, from myopia and dry eye to visual neuroscience and telehealth.

• View NECO Research

Our Innovation Center

NECO’s Innovation Center helps shape groundbreaking technology and practices that could improve the quality and accessibility of eye care.  

• View Innovation Center

Research & Innovation News

Learn more about us.

• Request Information
• Take a virtual tour of NECO

• Personal Finance
• Today's Paper
• Partner Content
• Entertainment
• Social Viral
• Pro Kabaddi League

Sponsored Content

JAIN (Deemed-to-be University) Elevates Vision Care Education with Bachelor of Optometry Program

Disclaimer: No Business Standard Journalist was involved in creation of this content

Don't miss the most important news and views of the day. Get them on our Telegram channel

First Published: Mar 14 2024 | 7:00 PM IST

Explore News

• Hindustan Unilever Share Price MMTC Share Price Tata Steel Share Price NHPC Share Price Tejas Networks Share Price IRFC Share Price Adani Green Share Price RIL Share Price SBI Share Price HDFC Bank Share Price IDBI Bank Share Price
• Latest News Company News Market News India News Politics News Cricket News Personal Finance Technology News World News Industry News Education News Opinion Shows Economy News Lifestyle News Health News
• Today's Paper About Us T&C Privacy Policy Cookie Policy Disclaimer Investor Communication GST registration number List Compliance Contact Us Advertise with Us Sitemap Subscribe Careers BS Apps
• Budget 2024 Lok Sabha Election 2024 IPL 2024 Pro Kabaddi League