Dr Donald E Mitchell, Director of the the National Vision Resarch Institute (NVRI) 1978 to 1980

Historical Significance: The National Vision Research Institute of Australia was founded by the Victorian College of Optometry on November 22 1972 after an appeal for funds to optometrists and the optical industry that enabled the purchase of property in Cardigan Street adjoining the College and the building of the Research Institute's laboratories, which were completed in 1974. Professor Barry Cole, the Director of the College at the time, was the Acting Director of the NVRI. Dr Donald E Mitchell was appointed in 1977 as the first full time director, and commenced in July 1978. He resigned in June 1980. He established a remarkable program of research into visual development using both psychophysical and neurophysiological techniques. He attracted Jack Pettigrew to run the neurophysiological laboratory and was assisted by research fellows Dr David and Sheila Crewther.