Research

The gift of sight is perhaps the most precious of all human senses. Since 1993, the physicians and scientists of the Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute at Columbia University Medical Center have been and continue to be pioneers in vision research and clinical care.

Today, the Edward S. Harkness Eye Institute is a leading international center for diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the eye, with priority emphasis on the basic science and translational research necessary to uncover the cause of these diseases and develop new vision-saving treatments. Our exceptional research faculty and their innovative research have resulted in landmark breakthroughs in virtually every area of ophthalmic science, as well as NIH funding, new clinical trials and increased private support.

Our physicians and scientists have invested in close collaborations between fine research scientists and outstanding clinicians, both intra- and inter-departmentally at Columbia, as well as other respected institutions, to improve surgical outcomes and the quality of care. Some of our most notable research efforts in genetics, translational research and bioinformatics have yielded surprising and impressive diagnostic and treatment methods for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), complex retinal detachments, retinopathy of prematurity, glaucoma, and disease of the cornea. For our talented faculty, it is truly exhilarating to push the leading edge of these exciting developments in vision research.

All of this is made possible – and will continue to be – by extremely generous public and private philanthropic support, and we are deeply grateful for the trust and support of our patients, dedicated donors, and loyal friends.