Nationally recognized vision scientist brings extensive NIH-funded research, teaching innovation, and leadership experience to the role
New York, NY — SUNY College of Optometry recently appointed Dr. Lisa Ostrin, OD, PhD, FAAO, FARVO, as Vice President and Dean for Research. A nationally and internationally recognized expert in vision science, Dr. Ostrin brings more than 20 years of experience in academic research, education, and leadership to her new role.
Dr. Ostrin will join SUNY Optometry in 2026 from the University of Houston College of Optometry, where she is a tenured professor and a leading investigator in ocular development, myopia, and circadian visual physiology. She is currently the principal investigator on two NEI R01 awards, and also serves as co-director of an NEI T35 research training program and module director on an NEI P30 core grant. Her additional research support includes funding from the Binational Science Foundation, Meta, LLC, and Topcon, and she serves as a consultant for Zeiss, EssilorLuxottica, and Alcon. She is the holder of a U.S. patent.
“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Ostrin to the SUNY Optometry community,” said Dr. David Troilo, President of the College. “Her outstanding record of scientific achievement, her passion for collaborative discovery, and her commitment to mentoring the next generation of researchers make her an ideal leader for this important role. Dr. Ostrin will be a key force in advancing our research enterprise and growing our national and international impact.”
“My passion for optometry and vision science grows every day, and I continue to find inspiration in the journeys and discoveries of senior researchers, clinicians, and trailblazers, while also drawing energy from the enthusiasm and fresh perspectives of those just entering the profession,” said Dr. Ostrin. “I am eager to contribute to the 50-plus-year legacy of excellence at the SUNY College of Optometry, and I am honored to join its leadership team to help chart its future.”
Until Dr. Ostrin’s transition is complete in 2027, Dr. Stewart Bloomfield will continue to serve as Vice President of Research. Dr. Bloomfield joined SUNY Optometry in as the Associate Dean for Graduate Studies and Research. Dr. Bloomfield will assist Dr. Ostrin to relocate her lab, resume her research programs, and begin the process of managing the college’s graduate and research programs.
In recognition of her research accomplishments, Dr. Ostrin has received numerous national and international honors, including the Oberdorfer Award in Low Vision from the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) and Women in Optometry’s Theia Award in Education. She is a Gold Fellow of ARVO, as well as a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry.
Dr. Ostrin earned both her OD and PhD in Physiological Optics from the University of Houston College of Optometry. She completed postdoctoral training at Johns Hopkins University’s Wilmer Eye Institute and the University of California, Berkeley School of Optometry, before returning to Houston to begin her faculty career. Her academic portfolio includes extensive teaching in both professional and graduate programs, where she has designed and led courses in anatomy, ocular physiology, vision science, and advanced myopia management.
A dedicated academic leader and mentor, Dr. Ostrin has served on admissions committees, faculty governance bodies, and university-wide ethics and research oversight boards. Nationally, she sits on a study section for the National Eye Institute, she is the former chair of the Vision Science Section of the American Academy of Optometry, where she helped launch the Diplomate Program in Vision Science, and she has held elected leadership roles within ARVO. She is the chair of the 2027 International Myopia Conference.
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About the SUNY College of Optometry
Founded in 1971, the SUNY College of Optometry advances visual health and patient care through leadership in education, research, and service. Located in the heart of New York City, the College is internationally recognized for its Doctor of Optometry program, its robust clinical training through the University Eye Center, and its impactful research in vision science. The College is committed to developing leaders in optometry and improving access to quality vision care across diverse communities.