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Optometry Research Jobs (NOW HIRING)

The SUNY College of Optometry, together with the UEC, seeks to develop a vibrant intellectual community of clinicians, teachers and researchers who work together on educational and clinical research.

Optometrist

Troy, MI · On-site

$115K - $130K/yr

Keep up to date with the latest developments and research in optometry. Required Qualifications: * Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited optometry school. * Valid license to practice ...

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Optometry Research information

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$11

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$37

How much do optometry research jobs pay per hour?

As of Jun 30, 2026, the average hourly pay for optometry research in the United States is $22.22, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $17.31 and $23.80 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Optometry Research vs Optometry?

AspectOptometry ResearchOptometry
CredentialsDoctor of Optometry (OD) or research-specific degreesDoctor of Optometry (OD)
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, academic institutions, industry settingsClinics, private practices, healthcare facilities
Job FocusConducting studies, developing new treatments, advancing knowledgePatient care, vision correction, eye health assessments
Industry UsageResearch institutions, universities, pharmaceutical companiesOptometry clinics, healthcare providers, retail optical stores

Optometry Research focuses on scientific studies and developing new eye care treatments, often working in labs or academic settings. In contrast, Optometry involves direct patient care, diagnosing, and treating vision problems. Both roles require an OD degree, but their work environments and daily tasks differ significantly.

What are some common challenges faced by professionals in optometry research, and how can they be addressed?

Professionals in optometry research often encounter challenges such as limited access to large, diverse patient populations for clinical studies, keeping up with rapidly evolving technology, and securing research funding. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams, including clinicians, data scientists, and industry partners, can help overcome these obstacles. Additionally, engaging with academic institutions and professional organizations can provide valuable networking opportunities and access to shared resources, facilitating both research and career advancement.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in Optometry Research, and why are they important?

To thrive in Optometry Research, you need a solid background in vision science, research methodology, and data analysis, often supported by an advanced degree (PhD or OD) in optometry or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (such as SPSS or R), and compliance with research ethics and clinical trial protocols is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for interpreting data and collaborating with interdisciplinary teams. These skills ensure rigorous scientific inquiry, accurate results, and meaningful contributions to advancements in eye care.

What is optometry research?

Optometry research involves the scientific study of vision, eye health, and visual systems, typically with the goal of improving the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of eye diseases and vision disorders. Researchers in this field may investigate topics such as new treatments for eye conditions, the development of advanced diagnostic tools, or the impact of visual impairment on quality of life. This research helps inform clinical practices and can lead to innovations in eye care and vision correction technologies.
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What states have the most Optometry Research jobs? States with the most job openings for Optometry Research jobs include:
Infographic showing various Optometry Research job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 100% Full Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $46,222 per year, or $22.2 per hour.
School of Optometry-Associate Professor/Professor-Optometry and Vision Science

School of Optometry-Associate Professor/Professor-Optometry and Vision Science

The University of Alabama at Birmingham

Birmingham, AL • On-site

Full-time

Posted yesterday


University Of Alabama At Birmingham rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 43 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

224th of 544 rated colleges and universities


Job description

Position Information
School/College School of Optometry Title School of Optometry-Associate Professor/Professor-Optometry and Vision Science Assignment Category Full-Time Rank Associate Professor/Professor Tenure Status Non-Tenure Track Payroll Status Faculty 12 Job Description
The School of Optometry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham invites applications for a non-tenure track Associate Professor or Professor faculty position. Professional clinical educators are sought in the areas of ocular disease, cornea/contact lenses, and other clinical specialties. Successful candidates will be expected to contribute to and advance the educational, clinical, service, and research/scholarship mission and objectives of the School. Clinical faculty are generally expected to (1) provide high quality patient care while educating and supervising student interns in the clinic setting, (2) provide high quality didactic and laboratory teaching in the optometry professional curriculum, and (3) participate in service activities that benefit the School, university, and the optometric profession. To a lesser degree, clinical faculty should contribute to scholarship related to their areas of interest.

Required Qualifications
Must have a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree from an accredited school or college of optometry. Eligible for licensure to practice the full scope of Optometry in the state of Alabama. Completion of a residency/fellowship program, or additional degree (MS, MPH, PhD), or minimum of three years equivalent clinical experience required.
Preferred Qualifications
Preference will be given to applicants who have completed a residency program related to ocular disease or cornea/contact lenses. Applicants without residency training, but with advanced clinical experience in these areas, will also be considered.
Posting Detail Information
Posting Number F2636P Open Date 05/05/2025 Close Date Open Until Filled Yes Nondiscrimination Statement
UAB is an Equal Employment/Equal Educational Opportunity Institution dedicated to providing equal opportunities and equal access to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, sex (including pregnancy), genetic information, age, disability, religion, and veteran's status. As required by Title IX, UAB prohibits sex discrimination in any education program or activity that it operates. Individuals may report concerns or questions to UAB's Assistant Vice President and Senior Title IX Coordinator. The Title IX notice of nondiscrimination is located at uab.edu/titleix.
Special Instructions to Applicants Pre-employment Background Check
A pre-employment background check investigation is performed on candidates selected for employment.
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About University of Alabama at Birmingham

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The University of Alabama at Birmingham is the heartbeat of Birmingham and an integral medical leader in the Southeast. The Birmingham campus is within walking distance of some of the best parks, entertainment, and dining in the region. UAB's three regional campuses expand their academic reach and responsibilities in addition to educating physicians in rural and underserved areas of the state. UAB is experiencing major and sustained investment and growth, due both to its exceptional research faculty and its culture of collaboration. Through concerted and strategic investments in its clinical and research enterprise, UAB has undergone an amazing transformation in the past five years and has strengthened its status and reputation as a leader in medical training, biomedical discovery, innovation, and patient care.

Industry

Colleges, universities, and professional schools

Company size

10,000+ Employees

Headquarters location

Birmingham, AL, US

Year founded

1859