At the University of Wisconsin–Madison Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, our focus is saving sight on a global scale. Our commitment to stopping the progression of blinding diseases starts with the empowerment and care of individuals. Our mission is to save vision through strong educational programs, leading research discoveries, and compassionate patient care.
Your Vision, Our Mission: Global Leaders in Saving Sight
Cutting Edge Research
Our laboratories are at the forefront of innovation, pushing boundaries and unlocking new frontiers at one of the most renowned research institutions in the world.
People First Culture
We prioritize the well-being and growth of every individual, in support of a welcoming environment where talents are nurtured, ideas flourish, and collaboration thrives. Together, we can make a profound impact on global vision health.
World Class Education
With state-of-the-art facilities and a commitment to fostering a collaborative learning environment, we stand at the forefront of ophthalmic education, training and empowering the next generation of eye care leaders.
IT STARTS WITH OUR DEEP-SEATED DESIRE
TO FIGHT BLINDNESS WHEREVER IT EXISTS.
It builds daily with the power of a team that recites the mantra, “Why not?” It ends with our unwavering commitment to you and yours. As an exemplary leader in vision care, research, and scholarship – the University of Wisconsin–Madison Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences is the place for transformative impact. We encourage you to explore our new website and learn about our initiatives – new and sustained – that fuel our mission to save sight locally and globally.
—A Message from the Chair, Terri Young, MD, MBA
Annual Report
Our department has been a leader in advancing vision science, patient care, and education for more than 50 years.
Learn more about our impact and recent achievements in our latest annual report.
Upcoming Events
- December
- December 5Ophthalmology Grand Rounds - In-Person Isabelle Audo, MD, PhD, Institut de la Vision, "Inherited Retinal Diseases: From Clinical Heterogeneity to New Genotype/Phenotype Correlations"7:00 AM, 1345 Health Sciences Learning Center
Also offered online - December 12Ophthalmology Grand Rounds - In-PersonStephanie Thermozier, MD, Wayne State University, "Acellular Fish Skin Xenograft for Eyelid Reconstruction in Burns, Necrotizing Fasciitis, and Trauma;" Claire Hermsen, MD, "On the Hunt for a Diagnosis: A Case of Diplopia and Blurry"7:00 AM, 1345 Health Sciences Learning Center
Also offered online - December 19Ophthalmology Grand Rounds - In-PersonJianhai Du, PhD, West Virginia University, "Metabolic Support and Communications in Retinal Degeneration;" Colin Froines, MD, "There Was an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly" 7:00 AM, 1345 Health Sciences Learning Center
Also offered online
Latest News
UW–Madison Team Conducts Vision Screenings in Madison Schools
November 19, 2025Alumni Spotlight: Dr. Christopher Spearman ‘19
November 17, 2025DOVS Welcomes Visiting Glaucoma Specialist Dr. Suneeta Dubey
October 20, 2025Dr. Susan MacDonald Delivers Annual De Venecia Lecture
October 9, 2025- More News