Images courtesy of Mumm and Smith labs
Mission: The mission of the Culver Vision Discovery Institute is to engage in high impact research and discovery related to visual function and disease the outcome of which is expected to have far-reaching clinical applications for patients suffering from blindness and visual disorders.
Research emphasis: Leading causes of blindness worldwide include diabetic retinopathy, glaucoma, cataract, age-related macular degeneration, and corneal disruption. Many of these diseases cause blindness and visual impairment to Americans as well. At the Augusta University, we have a number of basic scientists and clinicians who are investigating many of these devastating diseases. Members of the Culver Vision Discovery Institute include faculty members from the Augusta University Medical College of Georgia, College of Allied Health Services, Dental College of Georgia and College of Graduate Studies .
To achieve the mission of the Culver Vision Discovery Institute, we are committed
to fostering interactions among the members of our group. We welcome MCG colleagues
and members of the community to participate in Vision DIGM and Ophthalmology Grand Rounds . Currently we have two courses that are offered to graduate students and post-doctoral
fellows. The Fundamentals of Vision Science course that is available enhances understanding
of the eye is offered in the spring and Current topics in Vision Science that offers
students an opportunity to familiarize themselves with recent discoveries in vision
research and ophthalmic diseases is offered in the fall. We have a Pilot Project program that supports basic science-clinical collaborations leading to larger extramural awards
for vision-related diseases. We recognize that a key factor in achieving our mission
will be to recruit additional individuals with specific expertise. As these positions
are developed they will be posted on this website.
The Culver Vision Discovery Institute is directed by basic scientist
Dr. Sylvia Smith, Professor of Cellular Biology/Anatomy, Ophthalmology and Graduate Studies and by Dr. Julian Nussbaum, Professor and Chair, Department of Ophthalmology. If you wish to contact either co-director regarding the mission or activities of the Culver Vision Discovery Institute, you may send emails to vdi@augusta.edu or you may call the Vision Discovery Institute at 706-721-2727. The administrative duties of the Vision Discovery Institute are managed by Mr. Glenn Bedell in cooperation with Ms. Jenny Roberts, Administrative Assistant and Ms. Heide Andrews, Seminar Coordinator.
