Mechanism underlying visual processing in people with visual impairment
Susana Chung, Professor
Optometry
Applications for Spring 2025 are closed for this project.
This research project focuses on the understanding of how the visual system works in people with normal vision, as well as in people with uncorrectable sub-normal vision (visual impairment). Uncorrectable sub-normal vision can occur as a result of an eye disease (e.g. macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness in the US for people over the age of 65) or even in the absence of an eye disease (amblyopia, or "lazy eye"). Using non-invasive psychophysical methods and state-of-the-art retinal and functional brain imaging as the tools, our goals are (1) to investigate the various limiting factors on visual performance in individuals who are visually impaired as a consequence of an eye disease or amblyopia and (2) to devise methods to improve the visual capabilities of such individuals.
Role: The undergraduate research apprentices are expected to assist in setting up psychophysical experiments (involving computers), subject testing (including testing themselves as subjects), data entry and analyses. We expect the undergraduate research apprentices would develop skills and experience in interacting with human subjects and in conducting psychophysical experiments. For those who are highly motivated, exceptional in interacting with human subjects and are willing to undergo specific training in the lab, there will be ample opportunities to interact with patients with visual impairment.
Qualifications: We are seeking individuals who enjoy interacting with people, have patience, careful and detail-oriented. This position is ideal for undergraduate students who are considering a career in health-related disciplines. Please note that we need students to be able to come in the lab for this project, remote is not feasible.
PLEASE NOTE:
There is no need to email the PI or anyone in the lab before you submit your application. Any information (e.g. resume) that you would like us to consider should be submitted via the URAP portal. If you have any questions about the position, you will have the questions answered if you are selected for interviews. For fairness reasons, we will only consider materials submitted via the URAP portal, and we may not have the time to answer emails.
Hours: 9-11 hrs
Related website: http://selab.berkeley.edu/
Biological & Health Sciences Education, Cognition & Psychology