Aaron Y. Lee, MD, a physician-scientist leading the charge in utilizing artificial intelligence (AI) within ophthalmology research and patient treatments, has been appointed as the head of the Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and the Arthur W. Stickle Distinguished Professor in Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences, effective Sept. 1.
A highly esteemed surgeon, Lee transitions to WashU Medicine from the University of Washington, where he holds the position of C. Dan and Irene Hunter Endowed Professor of Ophthalmology. His appointment was shared by David H. Perlmutter, MD, executive vice chancellor for medical affairs, the George and Carol Bauer Dean of WashU Medicine, as well as the Spencer T. and Ann W. Olin Distinguished Professor.
“We are privileged to welcome this exceptional new leader, who offers profound expertise in the swiftly advancing realm of AI, to WashU Medicine,” Perlmutter remarked. “The internationally acclaimed Department of Ophthalmology & Visual Sciences has a rich tradition of leadership in clinical practice and research, and with Dr. Lee’s appointment, we foresee significant prospects for further advancements in the impending era.”
Lee is already familiar with WashU. Having graduated from Harvard University, he received his medical degree from WashU Medicine in 2009 and was among the first medical students at WashU to finish the university’s newly formed Master of Science in Clinical Investigation, which equips researchers for academic pursuits in clinical research. Lee completed his residency training at WashU Medicine and Barnes-Jewish Hospital, followed by two fellowships — a medical retina fellowship at Moorfields Eye Hospital in London and a surgical retina fellowship at the University of British Columbia in Vancouver. He became a member of the University of Washington faculty in 2015 and quickly advanced to full professorship in 2024.
Discover more on the WashU Medicine website.
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