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.
The University of Houston Cullen College of Engineering offers a wide range of undergraduate
and graduate degree programs across multiple disciplines, including biomedical, mechanical,
electrical and chemical engineering. Students gain hands-on experience through cutting-edge
research labs, industry partnerships and interdisciplinary collaborations. Specific
to vision science, researchers are working in the areas of biomedical imaging, ocular
biomechanics and optical technologies.
The University of Houston has once again set a record, welcoming nearly 49,000 students for fall 2025 — the largest enrollment in its history. This milestone reflects UH’s growing reputation as a first-choice university for many students across Texas and beyond.
The University of Houston continues its climb in U.S. News & World Report’s latest “Best Colleges” rankings, distinguishing itself as a national model for how public research universities can advance opportunity through innovation — driving both individual success and societal progress.
The University of Houston, a global leader in energy research and innovation, will receive $8 million in federal funding to help ensure the U.S. remains at the forefront of fusion technology.
