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Vision Science Jobs in Washington (NOW HIRING)

Kitware

Computer Vision Researcher

Arlington, VA

$155K - $215K/yr

Team Description: Kitware's computer vision team is a leader in the creation of cutting-edge ... PhD in Computer Science or related field * Strong publication record in top-tier research ...

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Vision Science information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a vision scientist, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Vision Scientist, you need a strong background in biology, optics, neuroscience, and experimental design, typically supported by a PhD or advanced degree in vision science or a related field. Familiarity with laboratory equipment, statistical analysis software (such as MATLAB or Python), and imaging systems is essential. Strong analytical thinking, attention to detail, and effective communication skills enable successful research and collaboration. These competencies are crucial for advancing knowledge in visual perception and developing applications in healthcare and technology.

What is the difference between Vision Science vs Optometrist?

AspectVision ScienceOptometrist
Required CredentialsTypically requires a master's or PhD in vision science or related fieldRequires Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree and licensure
Work EnvironmentResearch labs, universities, industry settingsPrivate practices, clinics, healthcare facilities
Industry UsageResearch, product development, academiaPatient eye care, vision testing, prescribing corrective lenses

Vision Science and Optometrists both focus on eye health and vision, but differ in their roles. Vision Science primarily involves research and development in vision-related fields, requiring advanced degrees and working in academic or industry settings. Optometrists, on the other hand, are healthcare professionals providing direct patient care, requiring a Doctor of Optometry degree and licensure. Understanding these differences helps clarify career paths and job expectations in the eye care industry.

What is vision science?

Vision science is an interdisciplinary field that studies how visual systems process information. It encompasses research on the anatomy, physiology, and functioning of the eyes and brain, as well as optical, computational, and psychological aspects of vision. Vision scientists work to understand how we perceive visual information, how visual disorders arise, and how technology can enhance or restore vision. Careers in vision science may involve research, clinical practice, or developing new diagnostic and corrective tools.

What can you do with a vision science degree?

A vision science degree prepares individuals for careers in research, clinical practice, or industry related to visual health, perception, and optics. Graduates can work as optometrists, vision scientists, research analysts, or in roles involving eye care technology and visual performance assessment, often requiring knowledge of optics, neuroscience, and laboratory skills.

What does a vision science do?

A vision scientist studies how the visual system processes and interprets visual information, often conducting research in areas like optics, perception, and eye health. They may work in laboratories, healthcare settings, or academia, using tools such as microscopes and imaging devices to understand visual function and develop treatments or technologies related to vision. Strong analytical skills and knowledge of biology, physics, and psychology are essential in this field.

What can I do with a master's in vision science?

A master's in vision science prepares individuals for roles such as vision researcher, optometric technician, or vision scientist in clinical, research, or industry settings. Graduates often work in eye care clinics, research laboratories, or with companies developing visual technologies, utilizing skills in optics, data analysis, and experimental design.

What are some typical collaborative projects a vision science professional might work on with other departments?

Vision Science professionals frequently collaborate with teams in ophthalmology, neurology, psychology, and engineering, depending on the setting. For example, they may work closely with ophthalmologists to develop and test new diagnostic tools, partner with engineers to refine visual aids or imaging technologies, or collaborate with psychologists to study visual perception and cognition. These interdisciplinary projects help broaden the impact of their research and often lead to innovative solutions in visual health and technology.

What are popular job titles related to Vision Science jobs in Washington?

For Vision Science jobs in Washington, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Vision Science jobs in Washington look for?

The top searched job categories for Vision Science jobs in Washington are:

Vision Science jobs near you
Infographic showing various Vision Science job openings in Washington as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 78% Full Time, 17% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 96% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution.

Vision Scientist

Tunnell Government Services

Bethesda, MD • On-site

Full-time

Posted 24 days ago

Job description

Tunnell Government Services, Inc., is comprised of the industry's leading scientists, medical and technical experts, and human capital and organizational development professionals. We approach all projects as a team and are committed to helping our clients transform and quickly achieve strategic goals. If you are interested in joining an employee-owned company that develops and implements innovative, integrated and differentiated solutions, please click on the links below to find the job that is right for you and contact us.
Vision Scientist
Background:
Tunnell has a contract opportunity available supporting the Division of Ophthalmic Devices (DOD) within the Center for Devices and Radiological Health (CDRH) at the Food and Drug Administration. A Vision Scientist is needed to conduct scientific and regulatory reviews to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new ophthalmic devices. This is a remote position.
DOD serves as the primary source for scientific and medical expertise on ophthalmic medical devices with regard to safety and effectiveness. The Division carries out scientific and end-to-end medical device review evaluation, including coordinating and making premarket review determinations, as well as planning and coordinating post market compliance and enforcement efforts related to medical devices.
Duties of the position:
Duties of the Vision Scientist may include but are not limited to:
  • With guidance and direction from senior scientists and engineers, the reviewer will review total product life-cycle actions (premarket, compliance, and post-market surveillance) related to ophthalmic devices. Actions may include 510(k)s, PMAs, De Novos, IDEs, pre-submissions, submission issue requests, 513(g)s, recalls and complaint submissions. Reviewer will apply his/her technical expertise to determine the adequacy of methodology, protocols and data concerning bench, animal and/or clinical testing and will, as needed, obtain appropriate consultation reviews of methodology, protocols and data that are outside the scope of the reviewer's expertise. Based on a collective evaluation of the submission, the reviewer will provide a recommendation of submission clearance, approval, disapproval, request additional information or provide scientific and/or regulatory feedback to applicants. For each submission, the reviewer will prepare a comprehensive memo supporting the recommendation and, when required, prepare the appropriate correspondence to the applicant.
  • Assist with the developing, modifying, and evaluating guidelines concerning data required in medical device actions to be submitted to the Agency. In this capacity, the reviewer participates as a member of a team of experts to develop agency or center-wide guidelines applicable to the regulation of relevant medical devices.
  • Present reviews, conclusions, opinions, and recommendations to appropriate scientific review panels on PMAs, petitions for reclassification, etc. These presentations will include key issues pertaining to the safety and effectiveness of the medical device(s), outlines of deficiencies, and recommendations for approval or non-approval of the device or the submission.
  • Enhance professional career development by collaborating with other scientists to better understand medical device problems. Keep abreast of current events and findings and changes in medical device law and regulations through review of scientific and legislative literature, personal contact with relevant authorities, and by attending scientific meetings.

Qualifications:
The candidate should have a solid background in basic and/or clinical visual psychophysics, visual optics, and optical instrumentation as evidenced by a record of independent, peer-reviewed published research.
A highly qualified candidate will have research experience with human participants including clinical trial design and management, especially clinical research involving ophthalmic devices (e.g., surgical lasers - cornea and retina), functional and diagnostic imaging devices, diagnostic visual tests, ocular implants such as intraocular lenses and retinal prosthetics). Experience in the manufacture, quality control, validation/ verification testing and measures for prescription of ophthalmic optical devices (e.g., intraocular lenses and contact lenses) is desired. Expertise in critically reviewing scientific documents and skill in clearly communicating review results are essential. Background in the following technical area(s) is highly desirable:
  • Visual Neuroscience
    • Neuroanatomy and neurophysiology of the retina and visual pathways
    • Visual electrophysiology, both clinical (ERG, VEP, etc.) and basic (single & multi-cell recording, retinal/LGN/cortical circuitry, electrical stimulation of visual pathways)
    • Functional imaging of visual pathways (e.g., functional MRI, opto-genetics, fluorescence)
  • Optics of the eye
    • Sources of retinal scattered light and its effects on retinal image quality in fovea and periphery
    • Retinal image quality (resolution and contrast) as a function of eccentricity
    • Optics of photoreceptors
  • Light energy hazard analysis, and mechanisms of light damage to the eye
  • Low Vision causes (medical conditions leading to impaired vision) and rehabilitation
  • Clinical psychophysical & optical testing
    • contrast sensitivity (typical luminance and low luminance),
    • BCVA (best corrected visual acuity) and low contrast acuity,
    • mesopic acuity,
    • perimetry,
    • color vision testing,
    • stereopsis, binocular vision
    • pupillometry,
    • aberrometry
    • accommodation testing
    • light & dark adaptation
    • psychophysical methodology
Education and Experience:
  • Doctoral level degree (e.g., Ph.D., M.D., D.O.) in a relevant field is preferred; however, an M.S. in Life Sciences/Engineering discipline combined with extensive experience with vision science and ophthalmic devices may also be
  • Minimum of 5-10 years' experience in fields directly relevant to the Vision Scientist position.
  • Experience authoring and evaluating responses to and from Regulatory Agencies is desired.
  • Demonstrated capability of proficient written and oral communication

This position is 100% telework.
Must be a US Citizen or full Green card holder.
Tunnell strives to hire and retain the most qualified talent. We believe that having employees with different backgrounds and capabilities contributes to the success of our business. To attract qualified applicants, Tunnell posts to a wide variety of job sites. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran.
Please be advised that certain client contracts may outline specific requirements for onsite work. Tunnell employees and/or contractors are expected to comply with all client requirements, including any safety and health protocols.

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