Mariya Moosajee

Professor of Molecular Ophthalmology, UCL, Institute of Ophthalmology; Group Leader of Ocular Genomics and Therapeutics at the Francis Crick Institute; Consultant Ophthalmologist and Head of the Genetics Department, Moorfields Eye Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK

What industry trends are catching your attention right now? 

The recent upsurge in genetic-based therapies for inherited retinal diseases has provided much hope for patients and families affected with these rare diseases. But sadly, failing phase III clinical trials, unrealistic demands for treatment efficacy by regulatory bodies, and financial instability of pharmaceutical companies are having a negative impact. Together, this will ultimately reduce the chances of our patients benefiting from new therapies that may make a difference, albeit small, to preserve their vision and quality of life. 

What is a little-known fact about you?

I always strive to do the right thing, speak the truth, and stand up for those who are being unfairly discriminated against. 

Make a bold prediction for the future of ophthalmology.

AI is changing medicine. In ophthalmology it will provide early diagnosis, guide improved management and outcomes – and it may even power robotic surgery for patients. My hope is that we see these technologies provide more equity of care worldwide with improved access to healthcare. 

If you weren’t an ophthalmologist, what would you be doing instead?

I would be a professional hyperrealist artist. I love all kinds of art, but particularly oil painting. I would have worked just as hard to get my collections in the National Portrait Gallery or the Tate Modern! You never know, one day…