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

Bruce Evans FCOptom: A curious mindset

We speak to Professor Bruce Evans FCOptom, Life Fellow of the College, about turning research interests into practical patient solutions.

Public health Research

AI and retinal vasculometry: The prediction business

Artificial intelligence could be used to predict heart disease risk using a retinal photograph. But, Kim Thomas asks, is it an opportunity for optometrists to extend their skill-set – or an unwelcome addition to their workload?

AI and technology Public health Research

First, be kind: leading with compassion

Denise Voon MCOptom, Clinical Adviser for the College, on responding to patients and colleagues with compassionate leadership.

Public health Research

The optical landscape in numbers

The use of evidence-based optometry is encouraged, but research can be hard to decipher. We break down some commonly used terms.

Public health Research

College presents President’s Medal to Professor Bernard Gilmartin

The prestigious research award recognised his lifetime's contribution to the field of optometry.

Research

Call for papers for special issue of OPO

Have your paper included in a special issue of OPO, the College's leading international research journal.

Contact lenses Research

Take part in our Clinical Practice Survey and help shape the profession

By taking part in this survey, you will help the College gather evidence to support the future needs of the optometry profession.

Research

Eyeing up the evidence

A message from Leon Davies, College President - Spring 2023.

Public health Research