VUMC’s Morrison honored by pediatric ophthalmology group
David Morrison, M.D., assistant professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Science and Pediatrics, has been named to receive the 2011 Pediatric Ophthalmology Young Investigator Award from the American Association of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus.
The international award is given biannually to an ophthalmologist who demonstrates outstanding contributions to both basic science and clinical research. Morrison will receive the award during the group's annual meeting in San Diego in March 2011.
David Morrison, M.D.
“It's great to be recognized for the hard work that we do in ophthalmology research,” Morrison said. “In academic medicine, it is critical to continue to strive forward in research and create new knowledge so that we are better able to care for children.”
Morrison's research focuses on several areas, including retinopathy of prematurity, tear draining problems, lazy eye, crossed-eyes and congenital cataracts.
He will also give a presentation during the conference on the nature of pediatric cataracts and the association of persistent fetal vasculature. His platform presentation will also be published in the Journal of AAPOS.
Morrison was nominated by colleague Sean Donahue, M.D., Ph.D., professor and chief of Pediatric Ophthalmology.
“What made him such a strong candidate is his broad range of interests. He really runs the spectrum of various diseases in pediatric ophthalmology and he is recognized as an expert in his areas of concentration,” Donahue said.
According to Morrison, the award also says a great deal about Vanderbilt's role in teaching, research and patient care.
“We have one of the largest Pediatric Ophthalmology divisions in the country. We have folks taking excellent care of children, we have a top-notch training program for residents and fellows, and we are leaders in basic and clinical research.”