Kirsten Hamilton-Maxwell

Dr. Kirsten Hamilton-Maxwell is a Senior Lecturer at Cardiff University's School of Optometry and Vision Sciences. As an optometrist and Senior Fellow of Advance HE, she plays a key role in clinical teaching of the undergraduate Optometry program. Her current leadership roles include Year 0 Programme Lead and Module Leader for Investigative Optometry, Introduction to Clinical Optometric Practice, and Basic Clinical Techniques.

Hamilton-Maxwell's primary research focuses on improving the accuracy and interpretation of eye pressure measurements, with particular attention to how corneal properties and environmental factors interfere with these measurements. Her work aims to advance glaucoma diagnosis and management, which is crucial as glaucoma represents the leading cause of irreversible vision loss worldwide. She also conducts significant scholarship in higher education, particularly in assessment and feedback practices and technology-enhanced learning approaches including lecture capture, podcasting, and gamification of learning experiences.

Her publication record demonstrates consistent research activity since 2007, with work spanning corneal biomechanics, intraocular pressure measurement techniques, and educational innovations in optometry. The research shows a clear progression from foundational studies on corneal thickness and tonometry to more applied work examining environmental factors, clinical protocols, and educational methodologies.

Among her notable recognitions are the UNSW University Medal for Optometry (1998) and multiple prestigious prizes during her undergraduate studies at the University of New South Wales, including the SOLA Optical Australia Prize, Theo Kannis Prize, and Hoya Lens Australia Prize.

Hamilton-Maxwell actively supervises student research projects at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, with research topics centered on corneal biomechanics, ocular biometry, intraocular pressure, glaucoma, and educational assessment. She has secured research funding including the Cardiff Centre for Education Innovation Seed-corn grant (2016) and Cardiff University Research Opportunities Programme award (2013). Her leadership extends to roles as Director of Learning & Teaching (2018-2021) and External Examiner for the University of Manchester's Optometry program.