How has being part of this society supported your professional growth or interests?

As one of the initial members of the society, and also having had the honor of being a past president, I really appreciate what the society stands for. The ability to interact with colleagues who genuinely share an interest around ophthalmic imaging has been very special. Not only has it allowed us to bounce ideas off of each other and therefore advance our research, it has also allowed us to collaborate in more meaningful ways, and has opened avenues that may not otherwise be open in a larger retina focused society. I think this is truly a special group and that there really is no other society quite like it. And while imaging is cool now, I remember a time when we were all just geeky imaging researchers marveling at the absolutely amazing things we could see in and extrapolate from images that no one else was interested in.

Who has been a mentor or role model for you in ophthalmology, and what’s the best advice they’ve given you?

There have been many, and I am so grateful to be part of such a rich culture of mentorship. While it is impossible to mention and express gratitude to each one of them, I do have to mention Jay Duker, my colleague, friend and mentor who I have worked with for more than ten years. Jay is a truly special leader, someone who empowers people to do what they were truly interested in and never tries to niche them. He is also always incredibly generous, allowing his mentees to share in his interests and always giving them credit for what they do. This is something that I’ve greatly appreciated him for, and also something that I have learned from him.

How do you support or mentor younger members or trainees in the field?

I think one of the greatest joys of working in academia is the ability to mentor very bright young people as they start their careers and then to watch them grow. I am fortunate enough, where some of the people who I mentored early on in my career now have very fruitful careers of their own, and indeed, some of them are members of this very society!! It has been amazing to see them develop their own niches and advance them.

If you could give your younger self any advice about the career, what would it be?

Relax. As long as you are willing to work hard, think creatively, and be helpful, there will always be opportunities to make a difference and to carve a niche for yourself. Stop and appreciate the incredible kindness and creativity of the people around you, and enjoy every moment!