USC Eye Institute names new director

Los Angeles-The Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California (USC) has named one of its own-Rohit Varma, MD, MPH-to become chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology and director of the USC Eye Institute, as well as to serve as professor of ophthalmology and preventive medicine and hold the Grace and Emery Beardsley Chair in Ophthalmology.

Dr. Varma is currently chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary at the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Medicine. He returns to Keck School of Medicine where he previously served as professor of ophthalmology and director of the glaucoma service, ocular epidemiology center, and clinical trials unit.

“I am deeply honored to have been selected (for these positions),” Dr. Varma said. “Keck Medicine of USC is known for its pioneering efforts in vision research and innovative solutions to managing eye disease and I am dedicated to continuing this legacy of excellence and helping guide the department to new heights.”

“Dr. Varma is an internationally recognized clinician-scientist, translational research, and educator,” said Carmen A. Puliafito, MD, MBA, dean of the Keck School of Medicine. “We’re proud to have him return to Keck School of Medicine of USC and name him as (chairman) of our ophthalmology department to continue our leadership in vision training, research, and clinical practices.”

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