Philip J. Rosenfeld

Professor of Ophthalmology, Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Florida, USA

Why did you decide to pursue ophthalmology/your subspecialty? 

The beauty of the eye, my love of genetics, and the importance of vision.

Who is your role model? 

Thomas Kelly MD, PhD – for his love of science and the design of experiments that yield meaningful results.

What is your proudest contribution to ophthalmology/your subspecialty? 

Avastin therapy for exudative and neovascular eye diseases.

What do you credit most for your success over the course of your career? 
My parents.

What would you like to see change in ophthalmology/your subspecialty over the next 10 years – and why?

The elimination of AMD as the major cause of irreversible vision loss among the elderly.

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

A biotech entrepreneur.

If you could restart your career, would you do anything differently?

Nothing! If you pull a thread, then the whole tapestry might unravel.

When you are no longer practicing, what do you want your legacy to be?

He made a difference in the world.

Do you have any advice for young, aspiring ophthalmologists?

Go where the unmet need is greatest.