From 2005 to 2014 the University of Iowa’s Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences solidified itself as a national leader in education, research, and patient care. Key achievements include the establishment of the Center for Macular Degeneration and the Hansjoerg E. Kolder Electrodiagnostic Laboratory, advancements in genetic testing and stem cell research, and the launch of EyeRounds.org for online education. Under the leadership of Dr. Keith Carter, the department expanded its clinical services, integrated innovative technologies, and received significant philanthropic support, solidifying its reputation as a hub for ophthalmic excellence.
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Clinical Expansion and Patient Care Philanthropy and National Recognition Pioneering Research and Innovation Key Research Initiatives from 2005-2014 The History of IVR Key Faculty Additions 2005-2014 EyeRounds.org: A Digital Revolution in Ophthalmic Education Timeline: 2005-2014
Leadership Transition: Keith Carter Becomes Department Head
A significant milestone in this period was the appointment of Dr. Keith Carter as Chair and Head of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. Dr. Carter, a nationally recognized expert in oculoplastic and reconstructive surgery, took on the leadership role with a vision to further the department’s clinical, educational, and research missions. Under his leadership, the department strengthened its reputation as a top-tier ophthalmology program while expanding opportunities for collaboration and innovation.
Dr. Carter’s tenure was marked by a commitment to mentorship, faculty development, and patient-centered care.
“Our goal is to continue pushing the boundaries of vision science while ensuring our patients receive the best possible care,” Dr. Carter stated in a departmental address.
His leadership also emphasized heterogeneity in medical training, increased outreach efforts, and continued advancements in surgical techniques and technology.
In the world of ophthalmology, few names resonate as strongly as Dr. Keith D. Carter. Since taking the helm of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Iowa in 2006, Dr. Carter has grown the department's reputation for excellence in patient care, research, and education.
Click here to read more about Dr. Carter
Click here to read more about Dr. Carter
A Journey of Dedication and Excellence
Dr. Carter's journey began with a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy from Purdue University in 1979, followed by a medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine in 1983. His passion for ophthalmology led him to the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center for his residency, and eventually to the University of Iowa for a fellowship in oculoplastic and orbital surgery.
Joining the faculty in 1988, Dr. Carter quickly established himself as a leader in the field. His board certifications from the American Board of Ophthalmology and fellowships with the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American College of Surgeons underscore his commitment to excellence.
Leading with Vision
Under Dr. Carter's leadership, the department has flourished. His tenure as the 122nd President of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and President of the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology (AUPO) highlights his influence and dedication. His accolades, including the Life Achievement Award from the AAO and the Orkan G. Stasior Leadership Award, speak volumes about his contributions to the field.
Transforming Education
Dr. Carter's impact on education is profound. As the residency program director from 1990 to 2006, he shaped the future of countless ophthalmologists. Today, he continues to mentor the next generation as the director of the Oculofacial Plastics, Orbit, and Reconstructive Surgery Fellowship. The residency program, with its integrated internship and competitive selection process, remains one of the most sought-after in the country.
Pioneering Clinical and Research Innovations
The department's clinical care and research capabilities have expanded significantly under Dr. Carter's guidance. The opening of the Eye Clinic at Iowa River Landing in Coralville in 2010 marked a new era of accessibility and convenience for patients. The department's research enterprise has also seen remarkable growth, with laboratory space doubling and new technologies, like the FDA-approved autonomous AI diagnostic tool for retinopathy, revolutionizing patient care.
Global Outreach and Educational Excellence
Dr. Carter's commitment to global outreach is evident through the department's popular educational websites, Eyerounds.org and Gonioscopy.org, which attract viewers from around the world. Faculty members, including Dr. Carter, actively participate in international mission trips, sharing their expertise and advancing global eye health.
Leading the Charge in Vision Research
The University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research (IVR) and the Translational Vision Research Facility, both established under Dr. Carter's leadership, are at the forefront of gene- and stem-cell-based treatments for blinding eye diseases. These initiatives position the University of Iowa as a leader in innovative vision research.
Building a Legacy of Excellence
Dr. Carter's tenure has been marked by a commitment to providing opportunities to underrepresented groups and growth. The department now boasts nearly 50 faculty members and 350 staff, making it one of the busiest eye clinics in the country. Philanthropy has played a crucial role in this growth, with 22 endowed chairs and professorships supporting the department's mission.
Clinical Expansion and Patient Care
The department continued to expand its clinical services, improving access to state-of-the-art care for patients across Iowa and beyond. The relocation of the Alson E. Braley Auditorium and the acquisition of a second refractive laser instrument enabled a broader scope of services, particularly in refractive and corneal surgery. The Iowa Lions Donor Memorial and Healing Garden, a tribute to eye donors and transplant recipients, was another testament to the department’s commitment to vision preservation.
One of the most notable programs was KidSight, which screened over 50,000 children for vision problems, helping to detect and treat conditions early. Additionally, faculty optometrists were integrated into the clinical team to enhance contact lens services and low-vision rehabilitation programs.
Philanthropy and National Recognition
Private support played a pivotal role in the department’s growth. A landmark $25 million gift helped accelerate vision research, particularly in genetic therapy for inherited eye diseases. The department also benefited from endowed lectureships and research chairs, further fueling academic and clinical advancements.
Faculty members were widely recognized for their contributions. Multiple ophthalmologists were named among the “Best Doctors in America,” highlighting their exceptional skills and dedication to patient care. This prestigious recognition is a testament to the high standards maintained by the department. Faculty promotions further reflected the department’s commitment to academic excellence, with several members advancing to higher academic ranks due to their outstanding research, teaching, and clinical achievements.
Additionally, Iowa faculty made their mark internationally, delivering lectures and participating in global ophthalmic initiatives such as Project Orbis. Project Orbis, an international non-profit organization, focuses on preventing and treating blindness in developing countries. Iowa faculty members contributed significantly to this cause by providing hands-on training and sharing their expertise with local ophthalmologists. Their involvement in such initiatives not only enhanced their global reputation but also underscored their dedication to improving eye care worldwide.
Moreover, faculty members were actively involved in various international conferences and symposiums, where they presented their research findings and engaged in collaborative projects with peers from around the world. These activities fostered a spirit of innovation and knowledge exchange, further solidifying the department's position as a leader in the field of ophthalmology.
Pioneering Research and Innovation
At the heart of the department’s success was its commitment to cutting-edge research. The establishment of the University of Iowa Center for Macular Degeneration and the Hansjoerg E. Kolder Electrodiagnostic Laboratory marked significant milestones in advancing the understanding and treatment of retinal diseases.
The department also played a crucial role in genetic testing and stem cell research, with NIH-funded studies on retinal degeneration and the impact of gene mutations on vision loss.
Technological advancements further enhanced research capabilities. The department spearheaded the use of adaptive optics for high-resolution retinal imaging and launched the Iowa Ophthalmic Imaging Group under the leadership of Dr. Michael Abramoff. This initiative enabled early detection of retinal diseases and laid the groundwork for telemedicine applications, such as the telediagnosis of retinal conditions in rural Iowa.
Key researchers, including John Fingert, Mike Anderson, Markus Kuehn, Todd Scheetz, Terry Braun, Adam DeLuca, Rob Mullins, Seongjin Seo, and Arlene Drack, were able to expand their labs and create specialized research groups. Janet Riley, a nurse with extensive experience, joined the team in 2009 and played a crucial role in expanding the inherited eye disease clinic and obtaining valuable patient samples. Jan single-handedly obtained over 3,000 skin biopsies and an even larger number of blood samples, fueling the institute's gene discovery efforts.
Despite the growth, Stone recognized the need for a stem cell scientist. At the 2010 ARVO meeting, he recruited Budd Tucker from Harvard Medical School. Tucker's background in commercial fishing prepared him well for the challenges of leading the Dezii Translational Vision Research Facility and the Ruby Human Retinal Engineering Laboratory. Tucker's experience in commercial fishing, which involved welding, drilling, lifting, and problem-solving, was invaluable in his new role.
A pivotal moment came when Stone and Tucker realized they could significantly reduce the cost of gene therapies by building their own GMP manufacturing facility. This facility allowed them to produce treatments at a fraction of the commercial cost, making gene therapy more accessible. They calculated that gene therapies could be delivered for less than $20,000 per patient, compared to the commercial cost of over a million dollars per patient.
The senior faculty, including Ed Stone, Val Sheffield, Budd Tucker, Rob Mullins, John Fingert, Todd Scheetz, Terry Braun, Mike Anderson, Markus Kuehn, Arlene Drack, Steve Russell, Culver Boldt, and Elliott Sohn, developed a mission to treat all forms of inherited retinal disease and glaucoma, regardless of rarity or disease stage. They aimed to use gene therapy to slow down or stop early forms of the disease and stem cell transplantation to restore vision to people who had lost it. They committed to doing this in a nonprofit manner with non-proprietary instruments and reagents to keep costs low.
In 2010, Ed Stone felt that the growth of the Center for the Prevention and Treatment of Macular Degeneration (CFCMD) was limited by its association with the clinical department of ophthalmology. To foster interdisciplinary collaboration, a new structure was proposed, and the University of Iowa Institute for Vision Research (IVR) was established in July 2010. This new institute reported directly to the Vice President for Medical Affairs and received additional lab space, expanding its footprint to 32,000 square feet.
Click to continue reading about the history of IVR
The IVR also focused on sharing their findings and resources with other groups to advance the field of vision research. They collaborated with the University of Pennsylvania on gene therapy for RPE65-associated Leber congenital amaurosis and made significant discoveries, such as identifying a mutation in the MAK gene responsible for retinitis pigmentosa in people of Jewish ethnicity.
Philanthropic support played a crucial role in the IVR's success. Notable contributions included a $20 million gift to build the GMP facility and a $5 million gift to establish the Ruby Human Retinal Engineering Laboratory. These funds enabled the acquisition of advanced equipment, such as a 3D printer for biopolymer scaffolds. This printer, one of only four in the United States at the time, was a major step toward restoring vision as it increased the survival rate of transplanted retinal precursor cells by up to 40-fold.
In 2012, Brian Walker, CEO of Herman Miller, discovered that his son Sam had retinitis pigmentosa. After consulting with the IVR, Brian joined the advisory board and organized a golf tournament, "Sam's Scramble for Sight," which raised millions for vision research. This event led to the discovery of the TRNT1 gene, a rare cause of retinitis pigmentosa.
The IVR's research efforts led to numerous publications and significant advancements in understanding and treating inherited retinal diseases. They developed methods for creating and transplanting retinal precursor grafts and refined surgical techniques for these procedures. The IVR faculty published 186 papers from 2010 to mid-2020, with five papers being cited more than 20 times per year. Their research was supported by an extensive collection of DNA samples, human donor eyes, patient-derived cell lines, and clinical images.
In addition to research, the IVR launched Stone Rounds, a web-based teaching system with clinical images from patients with inherited retinal diseases. This resource aims to educate and share knowledge with the broader medical community.
Overall, the IVR's interdisciplinary approach, innovative research, and commitment to affordable treatments have made it a leader in vision research. Their mission to "leave no one behind" and their dedication to sharing knowledge and resources have significantly advanced the field of inherited retinal disease treatment.
Key Research Initiatives from 2005 to 2014
From 2005 to 2014, the University of Iowa Department of Ophthalmology conducted significant research on genetic testing and stem cell research, particularly focusing on retinal degeneration and the impact of gene mutations on vision loss. Here are some key highlights:
Genetic Testing
Retinitis Pigmentosa (RP) Research
Edwin Stone, MD, PhD: Led a multi-year study funded by the Foundation Fighting Blindness with a grant of $1.47 million. The project aimed to discover genes causing autosomal recessive RP and develop low-cost genetic tests for various forms of photoreceptor degeneration, including RP, Usher syndrome, Leber congenital amaurosis, cone-rod dystrophy, and Bardet-Biedl syndrome. The research also focused on understanding the clinical features and progression of vision loss associated with specific genetic forms of these diseases
Leber Congenital Amaurosis (LCA)
Project 3000: Aimed to provide genetic testing for all individuals with LCA in the United States. The project sought to identify the remaining genes responsible for LCA, find cures through trials of new treatments, and make genetic testing the standard of care for LCA. The project also raised significant awareness and philanthropic support
Stem Cell Research
Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs)
Budd Tucker, PhD: Focused on using iPSCs to model and treat inherited retinal diseases. These stem cells, generated from a patient's own cells, can be developed into retinal tissue, allowing researchers to study how genetic mutations affect the retina at a molecular and cellular level.
NIH-Funded Studies
Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)
Stephen Russell, MD: Led a group analyzing the eyes of patients with AMD, matching physical and functional features with genetic patterns obtained from the patients' DNA. The research aimed to identify specific genes that cause AMD or influence the severity of the disease
Gene Therapy Breakthrough
Edwin Stone, MD, PhD: Played a key role in a landmark gene therapy breakthrough for Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA), reported in the New England Journal of Medicine. The study demonstrated improvement in vision following gene transfer to the retina in patients with LCA
Key Faculty Additions 2005 to 2014
Key Faculty Additions 2005 to 2014
Richard C . Allen, MD, PhD
- Position: Assistant Professor
- Specialization: Oculoplastic and Orbital Surgery
- Clinical and Research Interests: Eyelid, lacrimal, and orbital surgery,facial cosmetic surgery, outcomes of oculoplastic surgery and the development of new surgical techniques.
Arlene Drack, MD
- Position: Associate Professor
- Specialization: Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, Genetics
- Clinical and Research Interests: Pediatric eye disease, molecular ophthalmology, adult and pediatric strabismus, genetics of eye disease
Chris Johnson, PhD
- Position: Professor
- Specialization: Visual Field Testing and Perimetry
- Research Interests: Visual field testing, psychological evaluation of glaucoma and retinal diseases, development of automated diagnostic test procedures, visual factors related to task performance
Reid Longmuir, MD
- Position: Assistant Professor
- Specialization: Comprehensive, Glaucoma, Neuro-Ophthalmology
- Clinical and Research Interests: Optic nerve hypoplasia, glaucoma, visual field testing
Susannah Longmuir, MD
- Position: Assistant Professor
- Specialization: Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus
- Clinical and Research Interests: Methods of vision screening in infants, aphakic glaucoma, structural and functional changes in the optic nerve and retina in amblyopia
Vinit Mahajan, MD, PhD
- Position: Assistant Professor
- Specialization: Retina/Vitreous
- Clinical and Research Interests: Proteomics, genomics of vitreoretinal disease, molecular genetics of inherited vitreoretinal disease
Elliott H. Sohn, MD
- Position: Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology
- Specialization: Retina/Vitreous
- Clinical Focus: Diabetic retinopathy, rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair, macular/retinal degenerations, inherited retinal disorders
- Research Interests: Novel therapies for inherited retinal disorders/degenerations, gene discovery, intraocular fibrosis associated with proliferative diabetic retinopathy and proliferative vitreoretinopathy
Matthew J. Thurtell, MSc, BSc, MBBS
- Specialization: Neuro-Ophthalmology
- Clinical Interests: Eye movement disorders, particularly nystagmus
- Research Interests: Eye movement physiology and disorders, central eye movement disorders, eye movement perimetry, idiopathic intracranial hypertension, optic neuropathy, clinical neuro-otology
Budd Tucker, PhD
- Position: Assistant Professor of Ophthalmology
- Specialization: Macular Degeneration
- Research Interests: Stem cell research, patient-specific stem cell and biodegradable tissue engineering technologies for the treatment of blinding retinal degenerative diseases
EyeRounds.org: A Digital Revolution in Ophthalmic Education
"The success of EyeRounds.org proves that digital education has the power to reach beyond traditional academic settings, bringing top-tier knowledge to anyone with an internet connection" –Dr. Thomas Oetting
Launched in 2009, EyeRounds.org has swiftly become an indispensable resource for ophthalmologists, residents, and students seeking high-quality educational content. Developed by faculty and trainees at the University of Iowa, the website offers an extensive collection of clinical case studies, surgical videos, and interactive discussions on complex ophthalmic conditions. By providing open-access content, EyeRounds.org has broken barriers in medical education, allowing practitioners from around the world to benefit from the expertise of Iowa’s ophthalmology department.
Origins and Early Development
The roots of EyeRounds.org trace back to the University of Iowa's Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences. In 1925, Dr. Cecil Starling O’Brien was appointed as the head of the newly autonomous Department of Ophthalmology at the University of Iowa. Dr. O’Brien initiated the tradition of daily morning rounds to teach residents at the bedside, which later evolved into the grand rounds format. This tradition laid the foundation for what would eventually become EyeRounds.org.
The Birth of EyeRounds.org
EyeRounds.org was established as an extension of the University of Iowa's commitment to ophthalmic education. The website was designed to provide a platform for sharing case reports, tutorials, videos, and images from the department's morning rounds. The goal was to create a comprehensive resource that could be accessed by medical professionals and students globally.
Growth and Expansion
Over the years, EyeRounds.org has grown significantly. The website now receives thousands of hits daily from over 40 countries, reflecting its global reach and impact. The content on EyeRounds.org includes a wide range of ophthalmic cases, many of which have been presented during the University of Iowa's grand rounds. These cases are invaluable for teaching purposes and are intended for students, residents, and physicians.
Impact on Surgical Education
The platform's impact has been particularly significant in surgical education. With detailed surgical videos and step-by-step procedural guides, residents gain critical exposure to advanced techniques before performing procedures in the operating room. "Being able to watch a detailed, narrated surgical video before my own procedures gave me a huge confidence boost," recalled one former resident. This digital approach complements hands-on training, reinforcing the department’s commitment to producing highly skilled ophthalmologists. The inclusion of peer-reviewed cases and faculty-led discussions further enhances the credibility and educational value of the platform.
Support and Funding
The development and maintenance of EyeRounds.org are supported by the University of Iowa's Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and the Iowa Eye Association. This support ensures that the website remains a free and accessible resource for all users.
Current Status and Future Directions
By 2014, EyeRounds.org had grown into one of the leading online ophthalmology education resources globally. It was frequently cited in academic literature, referenced in ophthalmic training programs, and praised for its role in democratizing access to ophthalmic knowledge. "The success of EyeRounds.org proves that digital education has the power to reach beyond traditional academic settings, bringing top-tier knowledge to anyone with an internet connection," Dr. Oetting noted. The University of Iowa’s forward-thinking approach to digital education cemented its reputation as a leader in ophthalmology training, ensuring that generations of eye care professionals could benefit from its expertise, regardless of geographic location.
Today, EyeRounds.org continues to be a leading resource in ophthalmic education. The website's editorial board, consisting of experienced ophthalmologists and educators, ensures that the content remains current and relevant. As technology and medical knowledge advance, EyeRounds.org is poised to continue its mission of providing high-quality educational materials to the global ophthalmic community.
EyeRounds.org has come a long way since its inception, evolving from a local educational initiative to a globally recognized platform. Its commitment to providing comprehensive, accessible, and high-quality ophthalmic education has made it an invaluable resource for medical professionals and patients alike. As it continues to grow and adapt, EyeRounds.org will undoubtedly remain at the forefront of ophthalmic education for years to come.
Timeline: 2005 to 2014
Expansion of Surgical Training
2005• Formal curriculum introduced to enhance hands-on training for first-year residents.
• Implementation of structured wet lab training.Advancements in Retinal Imaging
2007• Iowa Ophthalmic Imaging Group established under Dr. Michael Abramoff.
• Adoption of adaptive optics for high-resolution retinal imaging.Launch of EyeRounds.org
2009• Online educational platform created to share case studies and surgical tutorials.
• Quickly becomes a leading ophthalmology resource worldwide.Clinical Growth and Patient Care Improvements
2010• Relocation of the Alson E. Braley Auditorium to expand clinical services.
• Introduction of a second refractive laser instrument.Research Breakthroughs in Genetic Eye Diseases
2011• UI researchers identified new genetic markers for inherited retinal diseases.
• NIH-funded studies began focusing on gene therapy for vision loss.Expansion of Pediatric Eye Screening
2012KidSight program screened over 50,000 children for vision problems, improving early detection and intervention for pediatric eye diseases.
National and International Recognition
2014• University of Iowa named among the top 10 ophthalmology programs in the U.S.
• Faculty received multiple awards, including AAO recognitions and endowed chairs.
• Iowa faculty participated in international ophthalmic missions and research collaborations.