Distinguished Lecture Series March 2025 — Robert Mullins, MS, PhD

You Need to Calm Down: Complement Overactivity in Age-related Macular Degeneration

Our 2025 Doheny Distinguished Lecture Series (DLS) March lecture will be delivered by Robert Mullins, MS, PhD, on Tuesday, March 25, 2025. Please refer to the lecture details below.

• Date: 3/25/25
• DLS Speaker: Robert Mullins, MS, PhD
  Martin Carver Chair in Ocular Cell Biology and Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine.
• Time: 12:00 – 1:00 pm
• Location: Doheny Eye Institute, 2nd Floor Conference Room, 150 North Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena, CA

Bio:
Dr. Robert F. Mullins is a Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at The University of Iowa, where he holds the Martin Carver Chair in Ocular Cell Biology. His research focuses on the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying age-related macular degeneration (AMD), choroidal endothelial dysfunction, and retinal diseases, with a particular emphasis on the role of the complement system and extracellular matrix abnormalities in the aging eye. His pioneering work has significantly contributed to the understanding of AMD pathophysiology, leading to novel therapeutic strategies for macular degeneration and inherited retinal diseases. Dr. Mullins’ research has been funded by the NIH, Macula Vision Research Foundation, and multiple other prestigious funding bodies. He has authored over 190 peer-reviewed publications, many of which have been instrumental in shaping the field of ocular disease research. His work has provided critical insights into choriocapillaris vascular dysfunction, gene expression in the human retina and choroid, and potential gene therapy interventions.

In addition to his research, Dr. Mullins is a dedicated mentor and educator, having trained numerous Ph.D. and M.D./Ph.D. students in genetics, biomedical engineering, and molecular medicine. His contributions to scientific service and peer review include roles as Associate Editor for Progress in Retinal and Eye Research, an Editorial Board Member for Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, and a reviewer for major funding organizations such as the NIH, Macula Society, and BrightFocus Foundation. He is also Treasurer for the International Society for Eye Research (ISER). Dr. Mullins earned his Ph.D. in Cell and Molecular Biology from Saint Louis University and completed his postdoctoral fellowship at The University of Iowa Center on Aging. He joined the faculty at Iowa in 2001 and has since established himself as a leader in retinal research. Recognized for his contributions, he has received numerous honors, including the David F. Weeks Award for Outstanding AMD Research, the Ashton Memorial Lecture Award, and multiple ARVO Fellow (FARVO) distinctions. His commitment to advancing the understanding and treatment of retinal diseases continues to drive innovation in the field of ophthalmology.