Professor Irene Ctori appointed president of the College of Optometrists

Professor Irene Ctori was announced as the new president of the College of Optometrists at the professional body’s annual general meeting (AGM) at Optometry Tomorrow (14–15 June, Harrogate Convention Centre).

Ctori is the current vice president of the College of Optometrists and is the dean of the school of health, medicine and life Sciences at the University of Hertfordshire.

Past-president, Dr Gillian Rudduck, will continue in her role as a trustee, and council member for the North West of England.

At the AGM, Hassnain Safdar was elected vice president of the College of Optometrists, while Irfan Razvi and Professor Kathryn Saunders were elected as Trustees.

Ctori thanked Rudduck for her “invaluable contributions and commitment to advancing the future of optometry” during her tenure as president.

“I look forward to building on the important work already underway to ensure optometrists remain at the heart of eye care delivery, with their full range of skills, knowledge and competencies recognised, valued and utilised for the benefit of patients,” she said.

College of Optometrists

The 2026 recipient of the President’s Research Medal, Dr David Elliot, with outgoing College of Optometrists president, Dr Gillian Rudduck

Dr David Elliot’s contribution to optometry and vision science research in the UK and internationally was recognised at the AGM with the 2026 President’s Research Medal.

The award, which is presented every two years, acknowledges the lifetime contribution of individuals who have conducted outstanding research in optometry, vision science and eye health. Previous recipients include Professor Bernard Gilmartin, Sir Colin Blakemore and Professor Larry Thibos.

A statement from the College of Optometrists highlighted that Elliot’s research has spanned a broad scope of topics, including geriatric optometry, evidence-based practice and cataract outcomes.

His work exploring the link between vision, gait and balance led to led to professional guidelines on vision and falls for the UK, Europe and Australia.

The award also recognised Elliot’s contribution during an 11-year tenure as editor-in-chief of Ophthalmic and Physiological Optics.

Director of research at the College of Optometrists, Michael Bowen, described Elliot as a “true scientist.”

“He has worked throughout his academic life to increase the evidence and knowledge that is available to optometrists and patients, never avoiding the tough questions or the need for critical thinking and feedback,” Bowen shared.

“Those of us fortunate enough to work with Dave have all benefitted from his rigorous but generous approach to research,” he reflected.

Elliot said that he was “deeply honoured” to receive the award.

“It is a wonderful way to mark the culmination of my career in optometry. Thank you,” he shared.