Pioneering Vision Research at Bascom Palmer

The future of ophthalmology lies in the creation of new knowledge and technology as well as its rapid translation into patient care. Bascom Palmer Eye Institute’s mission is to improve sight and prevent blindness through innovative vision research.

Bascom Palmer’s multidisciplinary research program covers a broad spectrum, from the most basic investigation into the nature of molecules, cells and tissues, to the development of devices for clinical and surgical applications. Current areas of clinical research include age-related macular degeneration, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, diseases of the retina and optic nerve, ocular infections and cancers of the eye.

Translational research projects in genomics, stem cells, gene therapy, and nanoparticles present new clinical opportunities. Bascom Palmer’s journal publication rates surpass those of any eye institute in the nation. With its robust scientific research programs and biomedical inventions, Bascom Palmer will continue to lead the field of ophthalmology throughout the 21st century.

William L. McKnight, the legendary leader of Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company (3M), valued research as “a key to tomorrow.” As a result of his generosity, Bascom Palmer’s Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Vision Research Center serves as the principal home to the Institute’s scientific research and embodies his enthusiastic support of research on the nervous system and the eye as a “window to the brain and body.”

All faculty members of the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute doing eye and vision research are investigators of the McKnight Vision Research Center. Investigators have an extensive network of collaborations with clinicians and scientists throughout the University of Miami as well with researchers at technology hubs throughout the world. This ensures that our vision research is at the leading edge and of the highest caliber. Our extensive research-training program also draws from this wealth of people and resources, enabling Bascom Palmer to offer unique, customized educational opportunities for those dedicated to vision research.

Bascom Palmer maintains a diverse portfolio of research funding, including grants from the National Eye Institute, Research to Prevent Blindness, Hope for Vision, Fight for Sight, Foundation Fighting Blindness, Prevent Blindness America, and many other organizations. Since we opened our doors more than 55 years ago, philanthropy from our patients and benefactors has played a vital role in supporting the Institute’s clinical and scientific research. For this, we are grateful.

Thank you for your interest in vision research at Bascom Palmer. We will continue to lay groundwork for new therapies and cures for blinding diseases, for this and future generations.