Darren Koenig

Darren Koenig is an Assistant Professor of Optometry at the Illinois College of Optometry, where he joined the faculty in 2018. He teaches clinical methods, procedures labs, and optics courses for 1st and 2nd-year students. His prior experience includes positions at MCPHS University School of Optometry, University of Houston College of Optometry, Brook Army Medical Center, and Lackland Air Force Base.

Dr. Koenig holds an OD from Nova Southeastern University College of Optometry and a PhD in Physiological Optics and Vision Science from the University of Houston College of Optometry. His research focuses on geometric, physical and visual optics, vision quality in aging populations, and optical/neurological limits to visual function.

His publications demonstrate expertise in adaptive optics, visual psychophysics, and age-related vision changes. Key research trends include innovations in optical measurement techniques and understanding physiological changes in vision across the lifespan.

Awards & Honors:

• Bausch + Lomb Ezell Fellow
• Ruth L. Kirschstein National Research Service Award
• National Eye Institute/ARVO Travel Grant
• Minnie F. Turner Memorial Fund Award
• Beta Sigma Kappa Honor Society

Professional Organizations: Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry with memberships in AOA, Optical Society of America, ARVO, and AAAS.