Harvard Ophthalmology was well represented at this year’s Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) Imaging in the Eye Conference and Annual Meeting, held last week New Orleans. Faculty, trainees, and alumni from across the department participated as panelists, lecturers, and presenters. We also welcome 250 guests at our annual ARVO Alumni Reception.
Congratulations to all our faculty and alumni who received ARVO awards for their outstanding contributions to vision research.
Dr. Claes Dohlman Honored with Champalimaud Vision Award Lecture
Cornea research pioneer Claes Dohlman, MD, PhD, Professor of Ophthalmology, Emeritus, and Reza Dana, MD, MSc, MPH, the Claes H. Dohlman Professor of Ophthalmology, presented the Champalimaud Vision Award Lecture as part of Dr. Dohlman’s 2022 António Champalimaud Vision Award. He received the award in September in recognition of his pioneering contributions to corneal research.
Dr. Eric Pierce Received Proctor Medal
Eric Pierce, MD, PhD, the William F. Chatlos Professor of Ophthalmology, presented the 2023 Proctor Medal Lecture, in recognition of his distinguished achievements in ophthalmology research. Dr. Pierce is internationally renowned for his pioneering research on the molecular genetics of inherited retinal disorders (IRDs). His research has led to the discovery of several novel IRD-causing genes. Eric has also played a leading role in developing CRISPR-Cas9 genome engineering for the treatment of IRDs, and has led cutting-edge gene therapy clinical trials, including a first-of-its-kind CRISPR-Cas9 gene therapy trial for Leber congenital amaurosis.
Dr. Demetrios Vavvas Honored with Kressig Award
Demetrios Vavvas, MD, PhD, the Solman and Libe Friedman Professor of Ophthalmology and an internationally recognized expert in vitreoretinal disorders, received the Kreissig Award for Excellence in Retinal Surgery. This award celebrates his contributions that have significantly advanced our understanding of the underlying mechanisms behind retinal diseases.
Alumnus Dr. Budd Tucker Recognized with Cogan Award and Lecture
Budd Tucker, PhD, an alumnus and former faculty member, received this award for his outstanding commitment to advancing our understanding of the mechanisms of IRDs.
Alumnus Dr. Leonard Levin Received Weisenfeld Award for Excellence in Ophthalmology
Alumnus and neuro-ophthalmologist Leonard Levin, MD, PhD, received this award for his distinguished scholarly contributions to the clinical practice of ophthalmology.
Dr. Patricia D’Amore Named ARVO President
Patricia D’Amore, PhD, MBA, Vice Chair for Ophthalmology Basic and Translational Research, was named the President of ARVO at the annual meeting. She has served as an ARVO Trustee since 2019.
2024 ARVO Awardees Announced
Martine J. Jager, MD, PhD, an Adjunct Scientist at Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear, will receive the 2024 Mildred Weisenfeld Award for her distinguished scholarly contributions to the clinical practice of ophthalmology.
Alumnus and scientist Daniel Saban, PhD, will receive the 2024 Cogan Award for his contributions to research in ophthalmology.