Fueling the Future of Vision Science

The Department of Ophthalmology is driving bold new discoveries in vision science, thanks to the generosity of our donors and the support of two key initiatives: the Vision Research Innovation Fund and the Tietze Family Award for Vision Sciences. These programs empower junior faculty to pursue groundbreaking, early-stage research with the potential to transform patient care.

The Vision Research Innovation Fund, established by members of the Community Action Committee, supports investigations across scientific, technical, and humanistic dimensions of vision science—leading to meaningful advances in diagnostics, therapies, and care models. Each year, one faculty member is honored with the Latham Endowed Faculty Fellowship for Vision Research Innovation, a distinction that recognizes their promise and provides essential resources to advance their work. This fellowship was made possible through the generosity of Community Action Board members Alida and Chris Latham, whose vision elevated the fund into a powerful catalyst for discovery.

In parallel, the Tietze Family Award for Vision Sciences celebrates exceptional early-career researchers whose innovative work is pushing the boundaries of understanding and improving eye health. This award was made possible by John and Eileen Tietze, whose support ensures that promising faculty have the resources to explore bold ideas and make meaningful contributions to vision science.

Projects supported through these initiatives showcase the depth and promise of discovery across the department. Past investigations include:

• Exploring strategies to slow the progression of myopia in children and adolescents.
• Using advanced imaging to detect retinal changes associated with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Improving the accuracy of eye exams in emergency settings following blunt ocular trauma.
• Examining the effects of chronic circadian disruption on inherited retinal degeneration in animal models.

Each study reflects the creativity and dedication of our junior faculty as they push the boundaries of vision science—to improve lives and shape the future of eye care.

None of this progress would be possible without the generosity of our donors. Thanks to the Lathams, the Tietzes, our Community Action Board members, and all who support these awards. Because of you the next generation of scientists and clinicians has the resources and encouragement to dream boldly, tackle urgent challenges, and bring hope and healing to patients and families around the world.

Be part of nurturing bold ideas and discoveries in vision science with the Vision Innovation Awards.  - Vision Research Innovation Award

VRI Awards for 2025 – 2026

Minh Nguyen, MD, Assistant Professor – “Cell-Free DNA in Tear Fluid as a Non-Invasive Biomarker for Ocular Surface Squamous Neoplasia and Conjunctival Melanoma.”

Kathryn Pepple, MD, PhD, Associate Professor – “Ocular immunology collaborative biorepository.”

Karine Duarte Bojikian, MD, Assistant Professor and Eric Duerr, MD, Assistant Professor - “Incidence of Neovascular Glaucoma in Diabetic and Retinal Vascular Occlusive Disease Eyes Treated with Anti-VEGF Monotherapy Versus Panretinal Photocoagulation in the American Academy of Ophthalmology IRIS® Registry.”

Rayne R Lim, PhD – “Investigating the non-canonical role of the complement pathway component C3 in the RPE.”