The University of Houston is a national leader in vision science, receiving more National Eye Institute research funding than any other institution in Texas and placing among the top 10 recipients nationwide. With 29 active NEI-funded projects totaling nearly $13 million, UH is advancing the frontier of eye and vision research through interdisciplinary innovation and clinical impact.
“This level of support positions UH as a hub for transformational eye research, enabling us to attract world-class talent, forge international collaborations and accelerate breakthroughs that advance sight and quality of life around the world,” said Claudia Neuhauser, vice president of research at UH.
The majority of NEI funding at UH supports the College of Optometry, which accounts for more than 70% of the total funding, with the Cullen College of Engineering contributing nearly 30%. Together, these colleges are driving breakthroughs in areas such as:
- Myopia prevention: UH co-leads a $25 million clinical trial testing preventive atropine drops to study the delay of nearsightedness in children.
- Retinal disease and gene therapy: Researchers are investigating genetic causes of retinal diseases and blindness, supported by over $3.6 million in NEI funding.
- Retinal neuroscience: A $2.6 million grant supports ongoing research into the electrical signals that impact retinal function — continuing two decades of work in this area.
- Corneal healing: A $2.2 million project is exploring new treatments for corneal scarring.
- No-touch optical elastography for corneal biomechanics: A $2.9 million grant, awarded in 2022, is developing a novel “no-touch” optical coherence elastography system to measure corneal elasticity and improve diagnosis and treatment of diseases like myopia and keratoconus.
- Biomechanics of accommodation: UH researchers are pioneering a new instrument that enables direct, non-invasive measurement of the stiffness in the lens of the eye, facilitating new treatments for presbyopia, supported by a $3 million, multi-year grant.
The UH College of Optometry, Texas’ only public optometry training program and one
of just 23 nationwide, has long been a hub for vision science. Its research portfolio
spans glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, amblyopia, contact lens technology and workforce
development for future clinician-scientists.
Meanwhile, the Cullen College of Engineering is pioneering optical imaging, biomechanics and nanotechnology for eye health. Projects include non-invasive diagnostics, personalized therapeutics and assistive technologies — all developed in close collaboration with optometry researchers.
“UH’s leadership in vision research is a testament to the power of collaboration and a shared mission to improve lives,” said Michael Twa, Humana Endowed Dean's Chair in Optometry. “Our faculty members conduct innovative biomedical research that is advancing eye care and making a significant impact globally.”
The University of Houston College of Optometry offers three academic degree programs and provides students with extensive clinical training through the UH Eye Care Center and five community clinic settings across Houston, Dallas and Fort Worth. Students work with nationally and internationally recognized educators, top surgeons, clinicians and researchers, preparing them to lead in patient care, optometric service, education and research.