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

#TheCollegeWrapped: Our achievements from October to December 2025

From celebrating new graduates to launching our five-year plan, the final months of 2025 marked a powerful step toward the future of eye care.

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

College survey shows 22 percent of people noticed their vision get worse during lockdown

Survey published as optometric services expand across England to offer wider care to patients

Infectious diseases Public health Research

Vitamin D and COVID-19 – what is the link?

Does vitamin D play a role in reducing the risk of COVID-19 infection, and what does this mean to the UK’s BAME communities? Mike Bowen, Director of Research at the College of Optometrists, considers the evidence.

AI and technology Infectious diseases Public health Research

Research Excellence Awards: Dr Keziah Latham interview

With nominations deadline for the Research Excellence Awards fast approaching, we’re talking to previous winners about the outstanding research happening in optometry, optics and vision science.

Low vision Research

Optometrists across England expand services to offer wider care to patients

Services expand as The College of Optometrists’ survey shows 22% of people noticed their vision get worse over the course of lockdown

Infectious diseases Public health Research England

Research Excellence Awards: Dr Jonathan Denniss interview

With nominations deadline for the Research Excellence Awards fast approaching, we’re talking to previous winners about the outstanding research happening in optometry, optics and vision science.

Glaucoma Research

Myopia management: Where are we and where are we heading?

The latest issue of our international research journal, OPO, is out now.

Myopia Research

Professor Mark Rosenfield is appointed new Editor-in-Chief of the College’s research journal, OPO

The College announces the new Editor-in-Chief of its leading international vision science and optometry journal, Ophthalmic & Physiological Optics.

Research

The latest research

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

Driving and vision Glaucoma OCT Research