Esen K. Akpek, MD

Esen Karamursel Akpek, MD is an internationally recognized cornea surgeon and ocular immunologist. She serves as Director of the Frances and C. Stephen Foster Center for Ocular Immunology and Inflammation, Chief of the Division of Ocular Immunology, and Stephen and Frances Foster Distinguished Professor of Ophthalmology at Duke University School of Medicine.

Akpek is widely recognized for her pioneering research and clinical expertise in artificial corneal implantation and the corneal manifestations of Sjögren's disease. Her work has significantly advanced the understanding, diagnosis, and management of complex ocular surface diseases, particularly autoimmune disorders affecting the cornea. An internationally respected clinician-scientist, she has authored more than 250 peer-reviewed publications and has made enduring contributions to the fields of corneal transplantation, ocular surface reconstruction, dry eye disease, and ocular immunology.