SUNY College of Optometry is intensifying its research initiatives with the addition of two distinguished vision scientists, promising advancements in both the understanding and treatment of critical eye disorders. Dr. Lisa Ostrin joins the college as Dean for Graduate Studies and Research, bringing her extensive expertise in ocular development, myopia, and circadian visual physiology. Meanwhile, Dr. Sayan Ghosh has been appointed Assistant Professor in the Department of Biological and Vision Sciences with a research focus on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), chronic inflammation, and novel pathways to delay disease progression.
Dr. Ostrin’s groundbreaking work in myopia research has earned national acclaim, supported by prestigious institutions such as the National Eye Institute and various industry collaborators. Her transition into leadership at SUNY Optometry coincides with her upcoming role as Editor-in-Chief of the eminent journal Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, beginning in 2028. Her appointment marks a significant step in elevating the College’s research profile on both national and global stages.
Dr. Ghosh brings a translational research approach to AMD, targeting biological mechanisms that underpin the dry form of the disease—the predominant cause of vision loss among the elderly. His investigations are centered on the formation of drusen deposits and how modulating specific biological pathways could slow disease advancement. Additionally, his research explores the interaction between diet, the gut microbiome, and chronic inflammation, aiming to uncover therapeutic targets for mitigating disease severity.
Having earned his neuroscience graduate degrees and PhD from the University of Calcutta, Dr. Ghosh’s scientific journey includes notable postdoctoral work at the University of Pittsburgh and a prestigious NIH K99/R00 Pathway to Independence Award. This grant will support the establishment of his lab and research activities at SUNY Optometry over the next three years. His multidisciplinary methodology integrates disease biology, animal modeling, and genetic technologies to illuminate new avenues for intervention in AMD.
SUNY Optometry, established in 1971, is recognized as a leader in vision science education, clinical care, and research. Situated in midtown Manhattan, the College offers comprehensive degree programs alongside a robust clinical network, including the University Eye Center—one of the nation’s largest optometric outpatient facilities. With a strong emphasis on translating discovery into patient impact, the College is uniquely positioned to advance vision science and improve outcomes for ocular diseases.
The addition of Drs. Ostrin and Ghosh reflects SUNY Optometry’s strategic vision to expand its research bench and address pressing challenges in eye health. Their combined expertise supports the College’s mission to foster innovation, enhance patient care, and mentor the next generation of vision researchers. As vision science evolves rapidly, their leadership heralds a new era of discovery and translational impact in combating myopia and macular degeneration.
This infusion of top-tier scientific talent underscores the critical need for interdisciplinary approaches to understand complex eye diseases. By bridging laboratory research with clinical relevance, SUNY Optometry continues to position itself at the forefront of vision research innovation, driving forward knowledge that promises to reshape therapeutic strategies and improve quality of life for millions affected by visual impairment.
Subject of Research: Vision disorders, myopia, age-related macular degeneration, ocular development, circadian visual physiology, chronic inflammation, translational vision science
Article Title: SUNY Optometry Accelerates Vision Science Research with Strategic Faculty Appointments
News Publication Date: Not specified
Web References: https://www.sunyopt.edu
Keywords: vision disorders, myopia, macular degeneration, eye diseases, ocular development, circadian visual physiology, chronic inflammation, translational research
