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Department of Ophthalmology

The Saint Louis University Department of Ophthalmology is a major tertiary eye care center, staffed by members of the department within the SLU School of Medicine. The department offers comprehensive ophthalmic services and research in many areas.

In 1890, Carl Barck, M.D., helped found the Marion–Sims College of Medicine in St. Louis. He became the first chairman of ophthalmology when Saint Louis University absorbed the college at the turn of the century.

More than 100 years later, the Department of Ophthalmology at the Saint Louis University School of Medicine continues a pursuit of excellence in providing patient care, resident education and ophthalmological research.

A group shot of professionally dressed individuals posing on the front steps of an office building.

Department of Ophthalmology

Research

The department is committed to advancing vision science through basic, translational and clinical research. Our work focuses on understanding the mechanisms of eye disease, improving diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, and supporting innovations that preserve and restore vision. 

Research is an important part of our academic mission, and we collaborate with investigators across the University and affiliated clinical programs to strengthen vision science and patient-centered ophthalmic care. Residents and medical students are encouraged to participate in mentored and ongoing projects and to present scholarly work.

Key Areas of Research

  • Inherited retinal degenerations
  • Diabetic retinopathy
  • Age-related macular degeneration
  • Glaucoma

Current Studies

To better define the molecular mechanisms that contribute to visual disorders, the department is exploring disease-related pathways such as:

  • Iron biology
  • Retinal metabolism
  • Oxidative stress
  • Inflammation
  • Cell survival
  • Photoreceptor signal transduction

Resources and Capabilities

  • Dedicated laboratory space
  • Access to experimental animal facilities
  • Retinal imaging
  • Optical coherence tomography
  • Electroretinogram
  • Microscopy
  • Cell culture
  • Molecular and biochemical analysis

Grand Rounds

Presentations begin at 7:45 a.m. in the third-floor auditorium of the West Pavilion.