Research

College research projects help to build a scientific evidence base that informs and influences College and national policies.

Research Strategy 2020-2025

This sets out how the College will approach research over the next few years and the key challenges it may face.

Forty years of research

For over four decades, the College has led the way in advancing eye health through world-class research, funding, and professional support.

Research grants and funding

Find out about the range of financial and practical support we offer College members undertaking research.

Research Excellence Awards

These awards recognise and celebrate the considerable achievements of our members involved in optometric research.

“The Undergraduate Research Scholarship has had a profound impact on my academic and professional development. It has equipped me with essential skills in interdisciplinary collaboration, script writing, and experiment design.”

“This scholarship has not only enhanced my confidence in research but has also opened my eyes to the possibilities of contributing to the field.”

Ifeoluwa Adeleke, Undergraduate Research Scholarship recipient

In the news

The College of Optometrists presents Research Excellence Awards to pioneering optometry researchers

The College of Optometrists presented its annual Research Excellence Awards to 2025’s winners at its prestigious annual Diploma and Awards Ceremony on 18 November at Central Hall in Westminster, London.

Latest in Acuity

The eyes have it

As we leave summer behind and head towards winter, growing demands on the NHS will no doubt fill news headlines.

Online CPD

Research courses

Online CPD courses for eye health professionals in collaboration with Ulster University and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR).

Access our journal

Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics (OPO)

The College of Optometrists’ research journal, OPO, has been the world’s top ranked optometry since 2014.

More on research

Join our optometric and ophthalmic community research webinar

The College and Eye Research Group Oxford are collaborating to bring you a webinar on Monday 24 June, on how optometrists can get involved in research.

Research

NIHR portal now hosts optometry research modules

We have partnered with Ulster University to develop a series of learning modules to support optometrists who want to undertake research, from developing their understanding of research to acquiring the necessary skills.

Research

Behind the headlines - spring 2024

Eye health issues that are making the news.

Children Myopia Public health Research

Tech news - spring 2024

A glance at what’s happening in the world of technology.

AI and technology Glaucoma Low vision Public health Research

Glaring oversights

What is the impact of global warming on eye health? Sophie Goodchild looks at the science and provides an update on the latest learning for optometrists about UV protection for patients.

Public health Research

Nominations open for Research Excellence Awards 2024

The College’s Research Excellence Awards recognise achievements in optometric research, and the way in which they enrich the whole profession.

Research

NIHR: Getting involved in research

MODULE 9: This online course identifies ways in which you can get involved in research and how to determine the different levels of practice-based research involvement.

Research

NIHR: Implementing evidence based eyecare

MODULE 8: This online CPD course demonstrates how to find relevant clinical research using the correct search methods and explains when these methods could be applied in your own clinical practice.

Research