The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Optometry has been ranked third in the country for vision research funding to schools and colleges of optometry, according to a report released by the Association of Schools and Colleges of Optometry. The 2016 direct costs awarded to the School of Optometry totaled $3.35 million.
In addition, the School of Optometry ranked second nationally in basic biomedical research funding. Vision research funding includes support for the Vision Science Research Center with training, equipment support, development of new projects and instrumentation for UAB vision clinicians and scientists.
“This helps us continue to grow our research programs,” said Michael Twa, O.D., Ph.D., associate dean for Research and Graduate Studies at UAB’s School of Optometry. “It also enables us to develop new knowledge that directly influences clinical practice and patient care that will change the trajectory of our school and the field of vision science. It’s an honor to be ranked among other tremendous schools, and a national ranking such as this will continue to put our program, optometrists and clinics on the map.”