Ian Bailey is an optometrist and vision scientist who is an international authority on low vision rehabilitation. He obtained his optometric and research training at the University of Melbourne, The City University in London and Indiana University. In 1967, he began his optometric career in Australia working at the University of Melbourne and then the National Vision Research Institute. Since 1976 he has been at the University of California, Berkeley where he is now an Emeritus Professor of Optometry and Vision Science.
He is perhaps best known for his work with Jan Lovie-Kitchin developing new “logMAR” design principles for visual acuity charts and introducing the method of scoring visual acuity as logMAR. He has made many noteworthy contributions towards developing a more rational and scientific approaches to optometric low vision care, and new tests and procedures related to the clinical assessment of vision. He has received many awards recognizing his contributions to vision science and to clinical low vision care. These include the Prentice Medal from the American Academy of Optometry, the Pisart Award from Lighthouse International, and an honorary Doctor of Science Degree from the State University of New York.
