Two PhD students from the University of New South Wales (UNSW) have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to optometry research with prestigious Ezell Fellowships from the United States.
The American Academy of Optometry Foundation’s Ezell Fellowships, established in 1949, provide support to graduate students enrolled in a full-time program of study and training in vision-related research, which leads to a Master’s or PhD degree.
Rehana Khan and Samrat Sarkar are both with the UNSW Sydney School of Optometry and Vision Science.
Ms Khan has been awarded the Rod Tahran Ezell Fellowship. Her project focusses on the development of a deep-learning model for predicting systemic and ocular abnormalities from retinal images.
Commenting on the recognition, Ms Khan’s supervisor, Associate Professor Maitreyee Roy said “by leveraging AI-based algorithms, Rehana’s work holds immense potential for early disease detection and improved health management”.
“This innovative approach bridges ocular features and systemic health, potentially revolutionising medical diagnostics.”
Mr Sarkar received the John N. Schoen Ezell Fellowship. His research project delves into the role of near vision behaviour in childhood myopia progression.
Dr Pauline Kang, Mr Sarkar’s supervisor, commended his ability to conduct high-quality research.
“Samrat’s dedication to advancing knowledge in childhood myopia has been recognised by this prestigious American Academy of Optometry Ezell Fellowship,” said Dr Kang.
“This award will support Samrat’s research, which will directly inform clinicians on how to best manage myopic children.”