Waterloo Eye Institute Fall Conference Brings Clinical Education and Industry Together
Wednesday, November 11 2026 | 09 h 16 min | News, Vision Science
The University of Waterloo School of Optometry and Vision Science hosted its 2026 Waterloo Eye Institute (WEI) Fall Conference & Trade Show, November 6–8, at the Hilton Toronto/Markham Suites Conference Centre, bringing together optometrists, optometric staff, researchers and industry representatives for three days of continuing education, professional exchange and industry engagement.
Under the theme TPA in Action: Modern Approaches to Primary Eye Care, the conference featured 18 speakers addressing developments in clinical optometry, emerging research and the evolving role of therapeutic care in contemporary practice.
The program offered up to 20 hours of continuing education for optometrists, combining clinical lectures, case-based discussions, expert panels and practical learning opportunities. A parallel one-day program for optometric staff provided six hours of targeted education for assistants, technicians and administrative personnel.
Dr. Stephen Burns Delivers Bobier Distinguished Lecture
A highlight of the conference was the Clair Bobier Distinguished Lecture in Vision, presented by Dr. Stephen Burns, Distinguished Professor of Optometry at Indiana University and the 35th recipient of the Clair Bobier Distinguished Lecture Award.
Recognized internationally for his contributions to vision science, Dr. Burns has spent more than four decades advancing research in colour vision, ocular optics, adaptive optics and retinal imaging.
His lecture, Measuring Changes to the Retinal Vasculature in Systemic Diseases, explored how advanced retinal imaging can reveal microvascular changes associated with systemic conditions, including diabetes and hypertension.
The presentation examined vessel wall remodelling, blood flow dynamics and cellular biomarkers, highlighting the potential of emerging imaging technologies to improve the early detection and monitoring of systemic disease.
The Clair Bobier Distinguished Lecture honours the legacy of Dr. Clair Bobier, whose contributions to optometric education and vision science helped establish the University of Waterloo’s research-oriented approach to optometry.
Clinical Education Spans Ocular Disease and Emerging Therapies
The conference program covered a broad range of clinical subjects, with particular attention to translating new research into practical patient care.
Among the featured sessions was a panel examining emerging approaches to age-related macular degeneration (AMD), including photobiomodulation, microcurrent stimulation, nutritional interventions, genetics and pharmacological therapies.
Ocular surface disease was another important focus, with Drs. Etty Bitton and Lyndon Jones addressing the clinical implementation of the TFOS DEWS III guidelines. Other sessions explored corneal disease, specialty contact lenses, pediatric ocular surface conditions and therapeutic management strategies.
A Waterloo Eye Institute translational research showcase connected developments in vision science with their potential applications in clinical practice.
Together, the presentations reflected the expanding diagnostic and therapeutic responsibilities of optometrists and the growing importance of evidence-informed clinical decision-making.
Nearly 40 Exhibitors Showcase Eye Care Innovation
Complementing the educational program, the WEI Trade Show brought together nearly 40 exhibitors representing a broad cross-section of the eye care industry.
The exhibition provided an opportunity for practitioners and industry representatives to connect, explore new technologies, review products and services, and discuss developments affecting clinical practice and patient care.
The trade show also served as an important networking forum, bringing together suppliers, practitioners and other eye care stakeholders alongside the conference’s educational activities.
WEI Trade Show: Exhibitor displays, new technologies, industry representatives and attendees
The annual WEI Fall Conference & Trade Show continues to provide a forum for connecting academic research, clinical education and industry developments within Canadian optometry.
The University of Waterloo has announced that the next WEI Fall Conference & Trade Show will take place November 5–7, 2027, in Markham, Ontario.
For more information: Waterloo Eye Institute Fall Conference & Trade Show
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