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Faculty in Clinical and Basic Science
We have a long tradition
of groundbreaking investigation into the origins of vision
disorders and the development of improved diagnosis, treatment,
and prevention of visual defects and diseases. Many Berkeley Optometry
faculty have international reputations and are recipients
of prestigious awards. Some researchers have held important
appointments in governmental agencies such as the National
Institutes of Health, while others consult with private organizations
that support research for the prevention of visual impairments
and sight-threatening conditions. Our students therefore have
the opportunity to learn from recognized leaders in the field
of clinical optometry and vision science.
Faculty in the Clinical Research Program
We have designed our
Clinical Research Program so that students are involved with
patient-based research through collaborative ventures among
clinicians, clinician scientists, and vision scientists. Our Clinical
Faculty offer the highest level of expertise and experience in
clinical education and training, providing valuable experience for
the practice of optometry and introducing students to the very latest
in new technology, diagnosis, and treatment.
Faculty in the Vision Science Research Program
Eighteen professors from Berkeley Optometry are
currently participating in the multi-disciplinary
Vision Science Research Program. Their laboratories are engaged
in the full spectrum of vision research, probing topics as varied as
corneal tear film biophysics, refractive error development, gene
therapy for retinal disease, cortical neurophysiology, adaptive optics, and depth
perception. Supported by millions of dollars in research and training grants, and working closely with their graduate students and
postdoctoral fellows, faculty in basic and
clinical vision science are are making cutting-edge discoveries, some of which may have direct applications in enhancing the
optometrist's ability to provide primary vision care. Berkeley Optometry faculty also include an additional five professors emeriti who to varying degrees maintain research laboratories or mentoring programs in the field of vision science.
Some optometry students choose to spend part of their time at
Berkeley Optometry working in the exciting and dynamic environment of one of these
research laboratories, and a few even opt to pursue combined careers
in optometry and vision science research. See the website of the
Graduate Program in Vision Science.
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