Founded in 1981
The National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision (NRTC) is the nation’s only federally funded center focused on employment outcomes for people who are blind or have low vision. The NRTC produces field-leading research and provides training to professionals ranging from direct-service practitioners to administrators of state agencies and federal programs.
The NRTC is primarily funded by the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research (NIDILRR). Our current NIDILRR funding is for a Rehabilitation Research and Training Center on Employment for Individuals with Blindness or Other Visual Impairments (learn more about our current research projects here). The NRTC has also received research funding from the Institute of Education Sciences, the Office of Special Education Programs, and the National Institutes of Health, and currently receives funding for training and technical assistance activities for the Older Individuals who are Blind program through the Rehabilitation Services Administration.
NRTC Highlights
- Research produced by NRTC staff over decades of study has contributed significantly to the field of employment for people who are blind or have low vision. Over 110 peer-reviewed publications have been produced by staff since 2011. (NRTC publications available for download.)
- Training is a key focus for the NRTC. We offer training for agencies providing services under the Older Individuals who are Blind program, and online continuing education courses. (Learn more about our training activities.)
- Technical assistance is provided to professionals who work with individuals who are blind or have low vision, these individuals themselves and their family members, employers, and anyone who has a question about blindness or low vision. We have a website dedicated to providing technical assistance. If you have a question for us, email us or call 662-325-2001.
Faculty & Staff
NRTC Employment Opportunities
Communications Coordinator
Looking for a communications role where your work truly matters? Join the National Research and Training Center on Blindness and Low Vision (NRTC) at Mississippi State University as our Communications Coordinator and help promote innovative research, training, and products that support individuals who are blind or have low vision across the country. Learn more on our employment page.
Program Coordinator, NRTC – Part-time
The Program Coordinator supports the implementation and tracking of specific project activities and deliverables for a large 5-year grant. This is a benefits-eligible, part-time position working an estimated 60% FTE. Learn more and apply on MSU's careers page.