The College is pleased to announce the launch of a key element of its research strategy, iPRO (Innovation in Practice Based Research). iPRO is specifically designed to encourage and support practiced-based research carried out by College Members within their community practice.
Wholly funded by the College of Optometrists, and delivered by the University of Birmingham, iPRO will provide a range of services to College Members across the UK who may be considering carrying out research. The support facility will expand the network of practitioners undertaking practice-based research, encourage the dissemination of research findings, raise the profile of practice-based research across the profession and provide a source of evidence for policy makers.
The range of support services iPRO provides include:
- Practical research advice and mentorship to optometrists. The iPRO team will provide expert advice and assistance at any stage of the research process
- Information on other sources of research advice, support and training resources available to optometrists
- Training programmes in research methodology. iPRO will organise a series of free courses and workshops across the country specifically tailored to meet the needs of optometrists who are new to carrying out research. Courses will cover a range of subjects from how to design a study to applying for grants and getting work published
- A Small Grants Scheme to help fund small scale research projects (including contribution to locum fees). Each grant will be worth a maximum of £10,000 and up to five grants will be allocated each year
- A collaborative network for optometrists undertaking or participating in primary care optometry research
Commenting on the launch of the scheme, Kevin Lewis, College President said “Research is key to the development of the profession. By providing funding for postgraduate research scholarships and summer scholarships the College already makes a significant contribution to the study of and research into optometry – indeed 50% of College Research scholars have gone on to an academic career - we hope that this new initiative will encourage College Members who are interested in carrying out some practice-based research but are not sure where to start to get involved.
This facility is aimed at Members who may wonder what pearls of wisdom are hidden in the mountain of information they have built up over years of practice, or who may have noticed a recent trend in patients presenting themselves for an eye examination, or those who simply want to develop their skills in order to move their own practice forward. I would encourage College Members interested in this new service to get in touch for an informal chat.”
To find out more please contact
Beverley Hancock
iPRO
Tel: 0121 414 7113
E-mail: b.hancock@bham.ac.uk