Games Institute faculty member Ben Thompson (School of Optometry and Vision Science) was recently named a 2022 University Research Chair. Dr Thompson is the CEO and Scientific Director of the Center for Eye and Vision Research, and his research focuses on human brain plasticity and visual cortex particularly in promoting plasticity to improve outcomes for patients with brain-based visual disorders.
Thompsons has published a variety of papers looking at the intersections between eye and vision research and games including “Game play in virtual reality driving simulation involving head-mounted display and comparison to desktop display” which examines simulator sickness, eye symptoms, and game engagement in driving simulator games. Other studies have focused on the use of video games as a treatment for amblyopia (more commonly known as “lazy eye”) in both children and adults.
“I am honoured to be appointed as a University Research Chair," says Thompson. "This recognition is shared by the outstanding students, postdoctoral fellows, and collaborators that I have had the privilege of working with at the University of Waterloo.”