Exploring Research Opportunities at NECO

Getting Started

At NECO, our research programs are integrated into the primary academic programs. Students have access to a variety of research projects that span across the areas of clinical optometry, vision science, ocular disease, and public health. Whether through faculty mentors or collaborations with nearby institutions, NECO provides multiple pathways for students to contribute to advancements in the field.

Opportunities for Student Involvement

Students gain hands-on experience by working closely with faculty members on these projects. Many faculty members actively seek student collaborators for both laboratory and clinical research, providing mentorship and guidance along the way. 

1. Faculty-Led Research Projects
   NECO is home to a dedicated and accomplished faculty whose research spans a wide range of topics, including:
   Ocular Disease and Therapeutics: Understanding and treating diseases like glaucoma, macular degeneration, and diabetic retinopathy.
   Vision Science and Neuro-Optometry: Exploring the neurological and physiological mechanisms behind vision and its disorders.
   Clinical Research: Investigating new diagnostic methods, treatment protocols, and technologies used in optometric practice.
   Public Health and Policy: Researching the impact of vision care on public health, health disparities, and access to care.
2. Research Internships and Fellowships
   NECO students have access to a variety of internships and fellowship opportunities designed to immerse them in real-world research settings. These programs are often structured in collaboration with hospitals, clinics, and research institutions in the Boston area and beyond. Students can work on projects that address critical challenges in the field of optometry, while gaining valuable skills in experimental design, data collection, and analysis.

   For those who want to take their research interests further, the college also offers competitive research fellowships. These programs are typically more intensive and are an excellent opportunity for students to undertake a focused research project, with the possibility of publishing their findings in academic journals.

3. Capstone Research Projects
   For students pursuing the Master of Science in Vision Science (MS) or the dual degree Doctor of Optometry (OD) and MS in Vision Science, capstone research projects are a required component of the curriculum. These projects investigate a specific research question in-depth, often culminating in a thesis or dissertation. These research initiatives are typically supervised by a faculty member and may involve clinical studies, lab-based research, or community health projects. Students receive mentorship through the design, execution, and analysis of their studies, further strengthening their research skills.
4. Collaborations with External Research Institutions
   In addition to internal opportunities, NECO students can take advantage of research partnerships with nearby institutions, including universities and medical centers. Located in the vibrant city of Boston, NECO benefits from proximity to world-class research hubs like Harvard Medical School, the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary, and the Schepens Eye Research Institute. These partnerships open doors for students to engage in collaborative research, attend joint seminars and conferences, and access cutting-edge resources and technologies.

Benefits of Research

Engaging in research at NECO offers numerous benefits that extend beyond the classroom. Research involves hands-on experience, publication opportunities, and career advancement. Each student has the opportunity to:

• Enhance Clinical Knowledge by investigating clinical questions and working with real patient data. Students deepen their understanding of the conditions and treatments they may encounter.
• Develop Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills by asking the right questions and finding evidence-based solutions.
• Prepare for Leadership Roles by contributing to the development of new treatment protocols and technologies, positioning themselves as thought leaders in the field.
• Open Career Opportunities by gaining a competitive edge in clinical practice, academia, industry, or professional reputation.
• Foster Collaboration and Networking by working with faculty, peers, and external partners allows students to build professional relationships that can be valuable throughout their careers. 

Research Resources and Facilities

NECO is equipped with facilities that provide the tools and technologies needed to conduct high-level research. The college is home to laboratories for vision science research, including those dedicated to ocular disease, optics, and visual perception. Students have access to advanced diagnostic tools, including optical coherence tomography (OCT), visual electrophysiology equipment, and high-resolution imaging systems, which are essential for conducting both clinical and experimental studies.

Beyond the labs, NECO’s library and research support services help students find academic journals, databases, and research materials, keeping them current with the latest findings in optometry and related fields.

Through faculty-led projects, internships, fellowships, and collaborations with top-tier research institutions, NECO students have the chance to contribute to the field while honing essential skills that will serve them throughout their careers. For those passionate about advancing optometry and improving patient care, NECO offers a rich and supportive environment to explore, innovate, and make a lasting impact.