Research Positions
The Eye Institute offers a unique multidisciplinary research experience. We welcome applications from medical students,
North American and International medical school graduates, Postdoctoral Fellows, and graduate students. A brief description
of ongoing clinical and basic discovery research is indicated below. Interested candidates should forward a copy of their CV,
statement of research interest and an indication of their time commitment directly to the researcher whose program interests them.
Basic Scientists
Dr. May Griffith
Please read Dr. Griffith's research profile.
Dr. Alan Mears
Research program is focused on identifying genetic determinants of photoreceptor development and function. For more information,
please read Dr. Mears' research profile.
Dr. Réjean Munger
Research interests focus on: a) the optical properties of the eye, their impact on vision and their correction,
b) using light as non-invasive retinal and systemic (currently focused on kidney disease) health probe and
(c) the use of head mounted display technology to overcome visual challenges resulting from medical or environmental
conditions. Research projects usually require a minimum time commitment of 4 to 6 months. For more information,
please read Dr. Munger's research profile.
Dr. Catherine Tsilfidis
Research interests in the lab are focused on gene therapy approaches for the treatment of retinal degenerations, and
on studying the regenerative capabilities of the newt Notophthalmus viridescens. Research projects require a full-time
commitment of at least one year, although applications from summer students, and 4th year honours students are
also welcome. For more information, please read Dr. Tsilfidis'
research profile.
Dr. Valerie Wallace
Cell cycle and cell fate regulation in the developing retina and stem cell transplantation for retinal disease.
Research projects require a full time commitment of at least 6 months, preferably one year and basic molecular biology
and cell culture experience would be an asset. For more information,
please read Dr. Wallace's research profile.
Clinicians
Dr. Seymour Brownstein
We offer a one-year funded, clinical research fellowship in ophthalmic pathology with many opportunities for publications on
clinicopathologic correlations as well as on basic science research studies. This provides excellent experience for
a pre-residency year prior to a residency in ophthalmology or pathology. An MD degree is required for the funded position.
For more information,
please email Dr. Brownstein.
Dr. Ralf Buhrmann
Dr. Buhrmann directs the Ophthalmic Surgical Simulation Center and has a research interest in microsurgical skills development
with particular interest in simulation models, curriculum development and evaluation. He also has research interests in
population disease management – research program in forecasting the epidemic of age-related eye disease in Canada;
population disease management approaches and guidelines for the prevention of blinding eye disease.
In addition, Dr. Buhrmann conducts research in international ophthalmology - guideline development of vision
care for immigrants and refugees to Canada. For more information, email Dr. Buhrmann.
Dr. Michael O'Connor
Research interests are in medical education, particularly post-graduate surgical skills development using virtual reality technology.
In addition, Dr. O'Connor is interested in pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus, particularly retinopathy of prematurity, pediatric
glaucoma and cataract, and amblyopia. Time commitment will vary depending on the project, but applicants should be prepared to make a
substantive commitment.
Interested candidates may email Dr. O'Connor.
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