Open-source XR platform to make vision tests and therapies accessible for people with vision loss
Official title: Improving Accessibility of Vision Research and Therapy using an Open-Source, Extended-Reality Platform
Funded at Northeastern University · NIH-11394274 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A grant to create an open-source XR platform that lets adults with low vision access basic vision tests and training from home or clinic.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $556,667 |
| NIH project number | 5R61EY037510-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11394274 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults 21+ with vision impairment such as amblyopia, stroke-related vision loss, central or peripheral scotomas, or general blindness.
✕Less likely to help
Individuals without vision impairment or those unable to use XR technology may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to turn XR headsets into a portable lab for vision science, making simple acuity, contrast, and perimetry tests available to people with visual impairment. Researchers will build user-friendly software and affordable hardware tools so clinicians and patients can run standard assessments outside traditional labs. The effort leverages gaze-tracking and eye-move training to help people with central or peripheral vision loss practice useful tasks in everyday settings. By bringing the lab to participants, the project hopes to improve access, independence, and participation for those affected by low vision.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, people with vision loss could regularly monitor and improve their visual function using affordable XR tools.
How similar studies have gone: Prior vision science research has shown that computerized and gaze-driven training can aid visual function, but this platform aims to broaden access by using open-source XR.
Where this research is happening
-
Northeastern University
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seitz, Aaron R — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Seitz, Aaron R
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.