Research Projects
Cagri G. Besirli, MD, PhD
Ophthalmic device and drug development
Our group is also interested in improving delivery of care for patients with ophthalmic diseases using novel biomedical tools. Our current research collaborations include developing a medical device to deliver rapid, non-pharmacologic anesthesia for in-office ophthalmic procedures, a hydrogel-based drug delivery platform for intravitreal injection of multiple therapeutic agents, and the development of nanoparticles and novel kinase inhibitors for the treatment of ocular cancer.
Grant Support
- Paul R. Lichter, MD Discovery Discovery Fund
Besirli (PI)
12/01/2015-11/30/2017
University of Michigan
Enhanced control over the release of multiple drugs for ocular diseases: Layer-by-layer assembly of drug-encapsulated particles and polyelectrolyte solutions
Joshua R. Ehrlich, MD, MPH
Head-Mounted Display Technology in Low Vision
Few interventions exist to improve the vision-dependent functioning of patients with severe peripheral vision loss. For this reason, our team is exploring the potential benefits of head-mounted display technology for this low vision population. We are examining the effect of this technology on a host of clinical, gait, mobility and quality-of-life outcomes. We are also working to optimize this technology so that it will best meet the needs of our patients.
Grant Support
Michigan Institute for Clinical and health Research
Role: PI
12/1/2016-11/30/2017
Optical Head-Mounted Display Technology for Low Vision Rehabilitation
Yannis M. Paulus, MD, FACS
Ophthalmology is one of the most technology-driven medical specialties with numerous recent advances due to improvements in technology. The Paulus Advanced Eye Imaging and Laser Laboratory focuses on applying physics, bioengineering, optics, nanotechnology, and mathematical modeling to develop novel retinal imaging systems and laser therapies. Our group has co-developed a novel, inexpensive system for providing tele-ultrasound, co-founded a retinal imaging company, and investigate pattern scanning laser photocoagulation (PASCAL), laser-tissue interactions, and restorative retinal laser therapy to create minimally traumatic retinal laser therapy. They have developed more targeted laser therapy through modulation of pulse duration (from millisecond to nanosecond pulse durations), wavelength, beam characteristics, and physical modulators. In addition, our group seeks to use the synergistic effect of combination therapies, for example with our newly developed and patented Photo-mediated Ultrasound Therapy (PUT), which uses a combination of ultra-short nanosecond laser combined with ultrasound to selectively cause microcavitation bubbles and treatment of pathologic microvasculature. In addition, our group works to develop new imaging platforms, such as photoacoustic microscopy, and multimodal molecular imaging of the retina and choroid for retinal ischemic diseases, including macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, vein occlusions, and sickle cell retinopathy.
Grant Support
- 4K12EY022299, National Institutes of Health, National Eye Institute
PI: Thomas Gardner
05/01/2016 – 04/30/2018
Real-time In Vivo Visualization of the Molecular Processes in Choroidal Neovascularization
Role: Scholar - Fight for Sight – International Retinal Research Foundation FFSGIA16002
PI: Yannis M. Paulus
07/01/2016 – 12/31/2017
Realtime In Vivo Visualization of the Molecular Processes in Retinal and Choroidal Neovascularization
Role: PI - Alliance for Vision Research
PI: Yannis M. Paulus
03/01/2017 – 02/28/2018
Photo-mediated Ultrasound Therapy as a Novel Adjunct Therapy for Macular Degeneration
Role: PI - Knights Templar Eye Foundation
PI: Tapan Patel
07/01/2017 – 06/30/2018
Smartphone-based Wide-Field Fundus Photography for Diagnosis and Telemedicine in Pediatric Retinal Diseases
Role: Preceptor
Kwoon Y. Wong, PhD
The Wong lab is developing novel lighting technologies that enhance alertness and productivity during the daytime, and an inexpensive smartphone-based eyewear for persons with low vision.
Grant Support
- National Eye Institute
- Promobilia Foundation (Sweden)
- MCubed (University of Michigan)
Related Faculty Bios

Cagri G. Besirli, MD, PhD

Joshua R. Ehrlich, MD, MPH

Yannis M. Paulus, MD, FACS
