Benoît Tousignant

Benoît Tousignant, an Associate Professor at the School of Optometry and Department of Social and Preventive Medicine at the University of Montreal, is a distinguished optometrist with dual expertise in public health and community-based eye care. His career spans international experience in the Netherlands, Papua New Guinea, and Vietnam, alongside clinical work with marginalized populations including Inuit communities, prisoners, and long-term care residents.

• Education:
  • OD, University of Montreal (2000)
  • Residency in Primary Eye Care, Pennsylvania College of Optometry (2001)
  • MSc in Vision Sciences, University of Montreal (2005)
  • MPH in Public Health, Harvard University (2008)

Tousignant's research focuses on ophthalmic epidemiology, health disparities in marginalized populations (First Nations, Inuit, homeless individuals), and global optometry development. His recent studies address vision rehabilitation for mercury-exposed communities in Canada, tele-eye care efficacy, and refractive errors in Sub-Saharan Africa. He has led collaborative projects with institutions like the Canadian Association of Optometrists and CIHR.

Scientific contributions include leadership in the Grand Challenges in Global Eye Health initiative and methodological advancements in tele-refraction technologies. His awards highlight innovative teaching (Prix d'excellence en enseignement, 2018) and community engagement (Prix du recteur, 2013; Clinique mobile Regard collectif, 2017). He directs Montreal's mobile optometry clinic, trains optometry students, and serves on committees at the University of Montreal and American Academy of Optometry.