My lab is investigating mechanism of photoreceptor degeneration and neuroprotection, focusing on two areas: targeting complement activation in models of age-related macular degeneration and improving mitochondrial metabolism as a means to promote life-span in neurons. I holds eleven U.S. and international patents, with an additional 24 applications pending. My IP provided the foundation for three start-up companies, one of which I co-founded. I have published >80 manuscripts; PI’d or Co-PI’d 40+ grants; and mentored 50+ trainees. In addition to the numerous intramural committees on which I serve, I am a Foundation Fighting Blindness Scientific Advisory Board member, member of multiple professional societies, including the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology and the Society for Neuroscience, serve on the Scientific Advisory Board for a few Startup companies, and am an elected member of the National Academy of Inventors.