Clinical Expertise

The fellow will obtain surgical experience during the year and will perform surgery with increasing autonomy as their skills progress. Experience in refractive surgery techniques is also an important part of the training. 

Engage in Research

Each ophthalmology fellow is expected to complete a research project based on clinical or laboratory experience. Research is usually performed within the department, but can take place in another department or, occasionally, at another institution. The research interests of the faculty are varied, and many projects are in progress. Presentations of research are made annually during the Resident/Fellow Research Conference at the end of the academic year. The P.J. Leinfelder Award is given annually by a faculty committee to the fellow who has made the most significant contributions in preparing and delivering their research.

Ample opportunity to engage in clinical research projects and to pursue additional laboratory research is also available depending upon the interest and previous training of the fellow. Current research investigation areas include endothelial keratoplasty, surgical outcomes, microbial keratitis, ocular surface disease, confocal microscopy, corneal topography, refractive surgery, diabetes and glaucoma related corneal dysfunction, and eye banking science.

See the most recent Resident/Fellow Research Day.

About the Iowa Institute for Vision Research.

Training and Education

The fellow is in clinic or in surgery with the faculty Monday through Friday. 

Friday mornings are devoted to resident lectures where the fellow may participate and attend as desired in preparation for their oral boards.

The Cornea Fellow provides a one-hour conference on slit lamp cases once a month and participates in Cornea and Refractive Surgery Grand Rounds approximately six times a year.