About Us

The Department of Ophthalmology at UMMS is committed to advancing the field of ophthalmology through basic and clinical research, translation of advances from the laboratory to clinical practice, and the training of medical students. Among other areas, we conduct basic and translational research to develop therapies for retinal and disorders. Our department Chair, Dr. Shalesh Kaushal, is a gene therapy specialist for the treatment of blindness and was the first investigator worldwide to use complement inhibitor molecules to treat patients. 

Basic Research

Our basic research program in our state-of-the-art research laboratory focuses on understanding the biochemical basis of retinal and macular degeneration, small molecule drug discovery, and the molecular and cellular fate of misfolded proteins associated with retinal diseases.

Clinical Trials and Research

Our faculty are leaders in gene therapy and biochemical research who will be key contributors to UMMC’s gene therapy program and other clinical and translational research efforts. We conduct clinical trials, clinical research, and novel drug testing, which has led to the creation of two biotech startup companies.

Clinical Practice

Through our UMass Memorial Eye Center, we provide comprehensive ophthalmology services to patients. We specialize in vitreoretinal diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration. We also provide patient care in orbit/oculoplastics, neuro-ophthalmology, and uveitis. Our services include the latest technologies for imaging, perimetry, and electrophysiology.

Vision Research Center

We have developed a member-supported network for information-sharing among physicians, researchers, and others that focuses on the latest developments in vision-related research and clinical findings.