Wilmer Research

The Wilmer Eye Institute is the largest department of ophthalmology in the United States and is an internationally-recognized research enterprise. Wilmer receives more funding from the National Eye Institute than any other university system, and is a leading recipient of research funding in the nation.

Wilmer is a thriving place for basic, clinical and translational research. Our researchers are thought leaders in the realm of discovery, dedicated to alleviating human suffering from eye disease by transforming ophthalmic care through innovative research. Our collaboration with multidisciplinary, world-renowned experts in fields such as gene therapy, nanotechnology, and stem cell research, have resulted in groundbreaking discoveries and therapies that enable us to change the way the world sees.

Our Research Teams

The Center for Nanomedicine

A unique translational nanotechnology enterprise that brings engineers, scientists and clinicians together on the translation of novel drug and gene delivery technologies
The Center for Stem Cells and Ocular Regenerative Medicine (STORM)

A pioneering, collaborative research effort across Johns Hopkins to study and cure vision loss and blindness through regenerative medicine
Wilmer Core Research Centers

In support of a highly collaborative, interdisciplinary environment of research resource centers known as the Wilmer Core
Cornea, Cataract & External Disease

Aimed at improving the diagnosis, management and treatment of corneal and external disease problems
Dana Center for Preventive Ophthalmology

Focuses on national and international public health prevention of blinding eye diseases such as diabetic retinopathy, trachoma and glaucoma
Disability Research

Aims to improve the health of people with visual impairments and other types of disabilities
Microscopy at the Wilmer Eye Institute (MWEI)

MWEI comprises facilities for confocal and transmission microscopy, as well as imaging of tissue cultures and frozen sections that contribute to research into ocular disorders and allied health problems for those who access its facilities.
Neuro-Ophthalmology

Aims to advance the prevention and treatment of neuro-ophthalmic disorders through groundbreaking research.
Ocular Immunology

Focused on the causes and treatments of ocular inflammatory diseases, including uveitis, intraocular inflammation, scleritis and iritis.
Oculoplastics

Currently focused on structures around the eyes and their relation to ocular diseases and orbital trauma, as well as their treatments.
Pediatric Ophthalmology & Adult Stabismus

Focuses on detection, management and treatment of pediatric and adult forms of strabismus and amblyopia.
Retina

Includes projects and multiple labs engaged in groundbreaking discoveries aimed at transforming the study and treatment of retinal diseases.
Translational Tissue Engineering Center (TTEC)

A joint venture of Wilmer and the Department of Biomedical Engineering to establish focus in research, education, and industrial development in regenerative medicine
Ultra Low Vision

Focused on assessing and enhancing the functional visual abilities of individuals with ultra-low vision.
Vision Rehabilitation

Our research faculty are committed to discovering new and innovative ways to improving the lives of patients with low vision and to improving their vision rehabilitation outcomes.