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Welcome to the OPTIC Lab

The OPTIC Lab (Ophthalmology Technology and Innovation Central Lab) was established at the Scheie Eye Institute University of Pennsylvania in June 2024 to be a dynamic platform where clinicians, engineers, and data science experts collaborate to advance the future of eye care. Our mission transcends traditional data management—we are dedicated to harnessing innovations like artificial intelligence (AI), remote monitoring systems, wearable technologies, and other emerging breakthroughs to transform the landscape of vision care.

A cornerstone of our efforts is the development of an advanced blindness prevention programs that integrates accessible care, coordinated follow-up, and centralized management within a rapid-learning system. Our vision is to create a scalable, innovative models for blindness prevention, launching at Penn Medicine with the potential to expand across Pennsylvania, the U.S., and globally. OPTIC seeks to bridge the gap between academia, industry and regulatory. By fostering strong partnerships, we aim to tackle the most pressing challenges in vision care, blindness prevention, and sight restoration. These collaborations enable us to co-develop solutions, leverage cutting-edge technology, and rapidly translate innovations into real-world applications that can benefit millions of patients.

In addition to research, our Innovation Fellowship Program offers hands-on experience for clinicians, researchers, and entrepreneurs.  Fellows work on projects in vision care and blindness prevention, equipping them with the skills to drive impactful change. As ambassadors of this mission, they will advocate for new solutions, share knowledge, and lead the charge in disseminating innovations to improve vision care globally.

Thank you for learning more about our mission, vision, and progress. At OPTIC, we’re not just solving problems—we’re creating solutions through innovations and collaborations, aiming to revolutionize the future of vision care. Welcome to OPTIC, where transformative change begins.

Sincerely,

Lama Al-Aswad, MD, MPH

Director of OPTIC Lab
Professor of Ophthalmology
Irene Heinz Given and John La Porte Given Research Professor of Ophthalmology II
Vice Chair for Quality and Safety
Director of Teleophthalmology, AI and Innovations
Scheie Eye Institute, Department of Ophthalmology
University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine
PRECISE Center Affiliate Faculty, School of Engineering and Applied Sciences