Houston Daily

The University of Houston has received more research funding from the National Eye Institute (NEI) than any other institution in Texas, ranking among the top 10 recipients nationwide. Currently, UH manages 29 active NEI-funded projects totaling nearly $13 million, supporting advances in eye and vision research through interdisciplinary efforts.

Claudia Neuhauser, vice president of research at UH, stated, “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.”

More than 70% of NEI funding at UH supports the College of Optometry. The Cullen College of Engineering accounts for nearly 30%. Research areas include myopia prevention—with a $25 million clinical trial on atropine drops to delay nearsightedness in children—retinal disease and gene therapy supported by over $3.6 million in funding, retinal neuroscience with a $2.6 million grant for studying electrical signals affecting retinal function, corneal healing with a $2.2 million project on new treatments for scarring, and development of no-touch optical elastography systems for corneal biomechanics backed by a $2.9 million grant awarded in 2022.

Additionally, researchers are developing instruments to measure lens stiffness non-invasively to address presbyopia under a multi-year grant worth $3 million.

The College of Optometry is Texas’ only public optometry training program and one of just 23 nationwide. Its work covers glaucoma, diabetic eye disease, amblyopia, contact lens technology and workforce development for clinician-scientists.

The Cullen College of Engineering is involved in projects related to optical imaging, biomechanics and nanotechnology for eye health. This includes work on non-invasive diagnostics and personalized therapeutics developed alongside optometry researchers.

Michael Twa, Humana Endowed Dean's Chair in Optometry at UH said: “UH’s leadership in vision research is a testament to the power of collaboration and a shared mission to improve lives. Our faculty members conduct innovative biomedical research that is advancing eye care and making a significant impact globally.”

Students at the College of Optometry receive clinical training through the UH Eye Care Center as well as community clinics across Houston, Dallas and Fort Worth. They are taught by educators recognized nationally and internationally.

The Cullen College offers undergraduate and graduate degrees across several engineering disciplines with hands-on experience through labs and industry partnerships; its researchers focus on biomedical imaging, ocular biomechanics and optical technologies relevant to vision science.