Research at the UCI Gavin Herbert Eye Institute The UCI Gavin Herbert Eye Institute and Department of Ophthalmology have assembled a unique, world-class group of scientists, engineers and physicians who conduct patient-oriented basic science and applied research on the next generation of sight-saving devices, drugs and procedures. Home Research Nationally Ranked #12 in NIH Ophthalmology Funding This internationally recognized team of investigators includes basic and clinical scientists who have placed UCI into the top echelon of U.S. institutions receiving National Institutes of Health grants for vision research. Many are pioneers in the development of ophthalmic lasers and refractive surgical technologies. Others are at the forefront of stem cell treatments for such conditions as macular degeneration, retinitis pigmentosa and corneal disease. All are focused on developing the treatments of the future that will prevent vision loss. View our Laboratories Center for Translational Vision Research (CTVR) Our Center for Translational Vision Research serves as an international leader in advancing research and bolstering the support of investigators pursuing basic and translational sciences relevant to vision. We are bringing together exceptional scientific expertise from within the University, the School of Medicine and other schools, and complementary research programs to advance collaborations that focus on fundamental discoveries in vision research with translational potential. We aim to integrate basic and clinical research, including genetics and pharmacology, in order to develop innovative and accessible therapies for millions robbed of their sight or progressing toward blindness. View our CTVR Website Basic Research Studies Currently Include Stem cells for retinal regeneration in macular degeneration and retinitis pigmentosa Regenerative medicine for retinal and corneal diseases Genetics of macular degeneration to improve treatment outcomes Safety testing of medications used in treating retinal disorders The role of environmental factors in retinal degeneration Imaging the optic nerve in glaucoma patients Development new therapies for glaucoma Understanding and preventing corneal scarring Understanding and preventing vision loss from herpes infections Antibody and T cell Responses COVID-1 Clinical Research Studies We are always finding new ways to prevent, diagnose, and treat eye disease and vision loss. You could help improve care for countless people in the future by joining a clinical trial today. Before joining a clinical study, it’s important to talk to your doctor about whether the study is right for you. Find a Clinical Trial Our Researchers We welcome your interest in ophthalmological research activities. We encourage medical students, surgical trainees and young investigators to establish mentoring relationships with our faculty members. If you are interested in research activities or collaboration opportunities within our department, please reach out to the following people: For laboratory research opportunities, contact Vladimir Kefalof, PhD or M. Cristina Kenney, M.D., Ph.D. For clinical research opportunities, contact Andrew Browne, M.D., Ph.D. Vision Research Consortium The consortium provides a cost-effective, efficient mechanism for companies and individuals to engage the full resources of the University of California, Irvine with guidance from the institute’s faculty. Initiate a Consortium Project Collaboration Opportunities Research collaborations with ophthalmic researchers, collaboration opportunities in ophthalmology, Learn About Collaboration Opportunities