Virtual Reality in Healthcare
I develop and evaluate virtual reality applications for optometry education and clinical training. These immersive environments enhance learning outcomes and prepare students for real-world practice.
I'm an optometrist passionate about using technology and other available resources to make eye care better for patients and students. I co-founded the translational Auckland Myopia Control Clinic, and now work on developing and advising on standards for optometry practice in Aotearoa New Zealand. My research explores virtual reality, eye tracking, and AI applications in healthcare, alongside broader interests in mental wellbeing, equity, and improving access to eye health.
I am available to supervise Masters and PhD students across these topics, and I welcome advisory or expert witness engagements where my experience in optometry, standards development, or digital health may add value.
Research
I lead the Virtual Eyes Lab, a research group focused on innovative technology applications in optometry and vision science.
Eye Tracking & Gaze Analysis
I explore eye tracking technology to understand visual behaviour, support clinical diagnosis, and develop assistive technologies for patients with vision impairment.
Artificial Intelligence in Optometry
I apply AI and machine learning to retinal imaging, disease prediction, and clinical decision support systems to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes.
Myopia Control Research
I research effective myopia management strategies and co-founded the Auckland Myopia Control Clinic to address the growing global myopia epidemic.
Publications
I share my research publications, including journal articles, conference papers, and collaborative works.
View PublicationsTeaching
As an educator, I teach and examine both undergraduate and postgraduate optometry students. I am the Part II coordinator for the Bachelor of Optometry programme, and course director of OPTOM216 - Introduction to Optometry. I also act as both a clinical and oral examiner for Part V students, and teach statistics and research skills as part of the OPTOM783 - Research Project in Vision Science.
Each year I supervise many Honours, Masters, and PhD students in a broad range of research areas, and I remain available to take on new Masters and PhD projects.
Teaching Roles
Part II Coordinator
I coordinate the Bachelor of Optometry Part II programme and direct OPTOM216 - Introduction to Optometry.
Clinical Examiner
I act as a clinical and oral examiner for Part V optometry students in their final year assessments.
Research Methods
I teach statistics and research skills in OPTOM783 - Research Project in Vision Science for postgraduate students.
Virtual Patient Platform
I develop and teach with the Virtual Patient platform to provide immersive, interactive learning experiences.
Postgraduate Supervision
Current PhD Students
- - Jasmine Zoest - Measurement of eye movements in three-dimensional space
- - Balaje Vivekanandan - Oculomotor Function, Attentional Function, Trans-Saccadic Processing and Visual Perception in Mild Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer's Disease
- - Maggie Xu - The Effect of Blue Light on Myopia Progression in Young Smartphone Users
- - Tony Han - Home-Based Monitoring of Visual Function in Age-Related Macular Degeneration
- - Jordan Cooper - Exploring the influence of eyelid and blink characteristics on dry eye development
Alumni
PhD Graduates:
- - Dr Samuel Chiang - The effect of optical defocus on choroidal thickness
- - Dr Safal Khanal - The effect of changes in choroidal perfusion on visual function
- - Dr Soheil Doustkouhi - Development of objective techniques of the optometric examination
- - Dr Alice Cade - Eye movements and postural stability following traumatic brain injury
- - Dr Aryaman Taore - Developing Eye Tracking Technology using a mobile device for the use of optokinetic assessment
Masters Graduates:
- - Bhavna Patel - Dry eye in younger populations
- - Richard Johnson - Maritime visual standards
- - Sabrina Ju - Treatments for AMD
Advisory and Consulting
I provide advisory services to professional organisations, regulatory bodies, and healthcare providers to advance optometry practice and education standards.
ODOB Advisor and Researcher
I advise the Optometrists and Dispensing Opticians Board on standards, education requirements, and professional development.
CAA Vision Standards
I contribute to Civil Aviation Authority standards for vision requirements and assessments in aviation safety.
Expert Witness Services
I provide expert opinion on optometry-related matters in legal cases and professional disputes.
Policy Development
I help develop policy and best practice guidelines for optometry education and clinical practice in New Zealand and internationally.
Contact and Engagement
Interested in Collaborating?
I am always interested in discussing how my expertise can support your organisation or research initiatives, including advisory and expert witness engagements.