In the world of ophthalmic research, I maintain a keen interest in the study of ocular surface diseases, notably dry eye syndrome, particularly prevalent among diabetic patients and contact lens users. My exploration centers on the conjunctiva's critical role, focusing on the investigation of goblet cells from deceased human tissues to uncover the mechanisms behind cellular signaling influenced by neuroreceptors such as CGRP, SP, and VIP. This pursuit extends to examining the role of corneal nerves in the innate para-inflammatory immune response, utilizing models of diabetes mellitus under environmental stresses and contact lens wear.
In my current position as an Assistant Professor at the New England College of Optometry, I contribute to this field through both teaching and research. My academic journey has been marked by postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Houston and UC Berkeley, where I focused on identifying biomarkers for corneal infections and studying microbial keratitis in contact lens wearers, respectively. My work encompasses a broad range of disciplines including microbiology, immunology, biochemistry, and genetics, all directed towards understanding and addressing anterior segment pathologies. Beyond my professional commitments, I engage in jewelry designing, scriptwriting, and traveling, pursuits that broaden my creative horizons and offer me a refreshing divergence from the scientific realm.