Optometry Australia recently announced that the 2025 recipient of the H Barry Collin Research Medal was QUT’s Professor Michael Collins. This medal has been named after distinguished optometrist, academic and researcher, Emeritus Professor H Barry Collin.
Professor Michael Collins is an accomplished optometrist and vision researcher whose career bridges clinical expertise and scientific innovation. He possesses a deep commitment to improving eye health, and he has dedicated more than 40 years to advancements in contact lens teaching as well as progression and improvements of visual optics, ocular imaging, customised contact lens design, and myopia development and control.
Beyond research and clinical care, Michael is committed to mentorship and professional development within the field of optometry. He frequently engages with students and early-mid career researchers, emphasising the importance of evidence-based practice and critical inquiry. Michael has shared his research achievements in many peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations. He is able to claim authorship of more than 250 peer reviewed papers, 25 peer reviewed conference proceedings papers, and 130 refereed conference abstracts.
In the early 1990’s, Michael established the Contact Lens and Visual Optics Laboratory at QUT, in Brisbane. This laboratory has attained international reputation for delivering excellence in basic and applied research and has played a significant role in the adaptive optics science that has contributed to the development of the newly marketed Johnson and Johnson Abiliti soft daily disposable contact lenses, designed to slow myopia in children.
What has made Michael’s career remarkable is the way he has positioned himself at the intersection of fundamental vision science and translational research. Through dedication, curiosity and compassion, Michael continues to shape the field of optometry. He is a remarkable vision scientist, a natural leader and supportive mentor, but most importantly, he is an honorable man.
Congratulations, Michael. We are all so very proud of you!
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