Vision is one of our most valuable senses. It is also the source of a rich array of research questions relating to how we see, how and why vision fails, and what can be done about it. Investigators in Vision Science conduct human and animal research and modeling, yielding cutting-edge discoveries and applications in disciplines that include molecular genetics, clinical care, adaptive optics, neurobiology, cell biology, infectious disease, bioengineering, perception, and public health.

Our PhD program emphasizes the interdisciplinary nature of vision science research through broad exposure to the basic concepts and techniques used in specialized fields. Engaged in both laboratory-based and clinical research, our students are working with faculty advisers whose research matches their own interests. Current research topics include biomedical optics, perception and visual cognition, molecular and cell biology, neuroscience, computational vision, genetics, immunology, microbiology and clinical science.

Vision Science Program

The PhD in Vision Science is based largely on research training. The Vision Science Graduate Group is organized in such a way that students are afforded a great amount of flexibility to investigate their research interests.

PhD Program

Our Students

About 40 graduate students are currently enrolled in the Vision Science program. Their undergraduate backgrounds include degrees in psychology, biology, engineering, computer science, or optometry. Engaged in both laboratory-based and clinical research, the Vision Science student work with faculty advisors whose research matches their own interests.

Students Profiles

Experience Berkeley

Life at Berkeley blends research and reflection, the scientific with the artistic, and the scholarly with the athletic. Our students come from different places and backgrounds, but together they create a diverse and kinetic community that seeks to create a better world.

Learn More

Events

We hold a lot of great events, including graduations, conferences, ceremonies, celebrations, lectures, reunions and more. Click on a link below for more information on each event.

Our Events

Faculty Perspectives

The faculty at Berkeley Optometry & Vision Science constitute a prestigious group of educators and researchers. See below for quotes directly from faculty at Berkeley Optometry & Vision Science.

Faculty Perspectives