Seeing Science Differently: Dr. Jeremy Barton’s Inspiring Journey with Visual Impairment

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Envision University provides continuing medical education sessions for professionals in the low vision field through a series known as Low Vision Grand Rounds. The most recent session featured Jeremy Barton, PhD, the Greg and Marilena Lucier Family Trust Research Fellow at the Envision Research Institute in Wichita, Kansas.

Dr. Barton, who has been visually impaired since birth due to Achromatopsia, shared his self-case report titled "Seeing Science Differently: Navigating Education and Scientific Research with a Visual Impairment". During the session, Dr. Barton shared his challenges and triumphs throughout his educational journey and transition into scientific research. In addition, he shed light on the difficulties faced by visually impaired individuals in STEM fields and emphasized the importance of accessibility and inclusivity in education, research and professional settings.

A highlight of the event was the virtual appearance of Dr. Barton's mother, Rosie Barton, who shared the crucial role of parental advocacy and its importance in acquiring accurate diagnoses and early interventions for children with visual impairments that will secure appropriate educational and developmental trajectories.

Dr. Barton concluded with an overview of his current research project on adapting mobile ophthalmic devices, demonstrating how diverse perspectives can drive innovation and enrich the scientific community, as well as strategies that can promote inclusiveness and empower those with disabilities to thrive in science and technology careers.