HDR candidates from the UNSW School of Optometry & Vision Science showcased innovative research spanning eye health, artificial intelligence, regenerative medicine, and clinical practice during the 2026 Research Progress Review.
The Higher Degree Research (HDR) Research Progress Review Presentations of the UNSW School of Optometry & Vision Science were held from 28 to 30 April 2026 at the Old Main Building (K15). The event brought together HDR candidates, supervisors, panel members, researchers, professional staff, and students to showcase ongoing research and foster scholarly engagement across the School.
The presentations highlighted diverse and interdisciplinary research areas, including ocular microbiology, antimicrobial resistance, retinal therapeutics, dry eye disease, telehealth, artificial intelligence, machine learning, regenerative medicine, visual neuroscience, and health professions education. The projects demonstrated strong translational relevance and reflected the School’s commitment to innovation, clinical impact, and collaborative research.
The event was coordinated by the Postgraduate Research Coordinators, Jerome Ozkan and Sieu Khuu, with foundational contributions from Isabelle Jalbert. Administrative, logistical, and operational support was provided by Dr Anne Barnes, Vicky Sawatt, Nicola Kapo, Daniel Pua and Tracy Kane. HDR representatives, volunteers, supervisors, and panel members contributed significantly to the smooth conduct of the event. The continued support of the School leadership under Professor Lisa Keay significantly contributed to the success of the program.
Best Presenter Awards were presented to Yuting Jin and Jack Gordon (First Prize Equal), with scoring collated by Dr Peter Wagner. Prizes were sponsored by UNSW School of Optometry & Vision Science and the UNSW Bookshop.
The event concluded with a networking dinner at Erciyes Restaurant, fostering collegial interaction, interdisciplinary discussion, and community engagement within the HDR research environment.
