Research Director

Tapas Kumar De is a highly respected and inspirational optometrist whose dedication, resilience, and passion have left a profound mark on the field of eye care in India. Born with an enduring commitment to excellence, Tapas has built an extraordinary career filled with both professional achievements and personal triumphs.

His academic journey began with a Bachelor’s degree in Optometry from Paramedical College, Durgapur, affiliated with the West Bengal University of Technology, in 2008. Driven by his thirst for knowledge and commitment to advancing in his field, he pursued and completed a Master’s degree in Optometry from Bharati Vidyapeeth University in Pune in 2010. His educational background laid a solid foundation for what would become an exemplary career in optometry, marked by a series of impactful roles and contributions.

Tapas’s professional journey began at Netaji Eye Hospital in Ramchandrapur, Purulia, where he served as an intern, gaining hands-on experience in a clinical setting. Following this, he worked as a Consultant Optometrist at Sekhar Netralaya in Bangalore for two and a half years, where he honed his skills in patient care and eye health management. His expertise and leadership qualities then led him to the prestigious role of Assistant Professor and Head of the Low Vision Department at Sankara Eye Foundation, where he worked for over five years. In this position, he guided a team dedicated to supporting patients with low vision, offering compassionate care and specialized treatments. Later, he joined NSHM Durgapur as an Assistant Professor in Optometry, further expanding his influence by educating and mentoring future optometrists for over a year.

In 2019, Tapas’s dedication to his field was recognized on a national level when he secured the top position in two highly competitive All-India examinations—ESIC (Employees' State Insurance Corporation) and Railway. These achievements underscored his exceptional knowledge and commitment to excellence, paving the way for his current role as an Optometrist at ESIC Model Hospital in Jaipur, where he continues to provide essential care to his patients.

An individual with a deep passion for research, Tapas has guided numerous research projects, many of which have been published in reputable national and international journals. His contribution to academic literature not only advances the field of optometry but also inspires his peers and students. Known for his motivational and engaging teaching style, Tapas is beloved by his students, who respect his dedication to their growth and development. His teaching goes beyond technical knowledge, as he instils a sense of compassion and purpose in his students, shaping them into empathetic and skilled professionals.

Outside of his professional life, Tapas is an enthusiastic sportsman with a love for athletic pursuits. He has participated in numerous marathons, showcasing his physical endurance and determination. In 2022, he was selected as a striker for the ESIC Rajasthan football team, an achievement that highlights his versatility and teamwork. His resilience extends beyond sports; he is also a cancer survivor, a journey that reflects his strength, optimism, and unwavering spirit.

Humble, hardworking, and optimistic, Tapas Kumar De is not only a skilled optometrist but also a beacon of hope and inspiration for his students, colleagues, and patients. His life is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and positivity. He continues to uplift those around him, leaving an indelible legacy in both his professional field and personal life.