Â鶹Éçmadou

In celebration of academic achievement, three Â鶹Éçmadou School of Optometry & Vision Science PhD students have successfully completed their doctoral journeys, marking significant contributions to their respective fields. Dr Adam Samuels, Dr Nicole Liu, and Dr Rene Cheung graduated on 25 March 2025 celebrating the occasion with family, supervisors, peers and friends. 

Dr Adam Samuels completed his PhD with a thesis titled Text Message Interventions to Improve Hygiene Compliance in Contact Lens Wearers. Under the guidance of Scientia A/Prof Nicole Carnt, Prof Lisa Keay, and A/Prof Kate Fasse, Dr Samuels explored innovative methods to enhance hygiene practices among contact lens users, potentially reducing the risk of eye infections and improving overall eye health.

Dr Nicole Liu focused her research on the intricate relationship between Myopia and Circadian Rhythm. Supervised by Prof Padmaja Sankaridurg and A/Prof Thomas Naduvilath, Dr Liu's work sheds light on how circadian rhythms influence the development and progression of myopia, offering new insights that could inform future treatments and preventive measures for this common vision condition.

Dr Rene Cheung's thesis, titled Access: the Key to Retinal Imaging, was supervised by Dr Lisa Nivison-Smith and Dr Angelica Ly.  Dr Cheung's research emphasises the importance of accessibility in retinal imaging technologies, aiming to improve diagnostic capabilities and patient outcomes in primary eyecare and ophthalmology.

The journey to a PhD is often described as a labour of love, requiring immense perseverance, long hours of research, and the unwavering support of family and friends. 

Despite the sacrifices, undertaking a PhD brings immense personal and professional growth. For those who embark on this journey, the rewards are truly worth the effort.

Â鶹Éçmadou School of Optometry & Vision Science extends its heartfelt congratulations to Adam, Nicole, and Rene for their outstanding achievements. Their contributions to their fields are a source of pride and inspiration for future scholars and we look forward to seeing the impact of their research in the years to come.