Mark S. Humayun, M.D., Ph.D.

Abiotic-biotic Retinal Interfaces

Mark Humayun headshot

Mark S. Humayun, MD, PhD,  is the Cornelius J. Pings Chair in Biomedical Sciences, Professor of Ophthalmology, Biomedical Engineering, and Integrative Anatomical Sciences, Director of the USC Institute for Biomedical Therapeutics, and Co-Director of the USC Roski Eye Institute. Dr. Humayun is an internationally recognized pioneer in vision restoration. He has dedicated 30 years to the development of a bioelectronic artificial retina to restore sight to the blind. His perseverance and ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams culminated in this artificial retina (Argus II) to be approved by the FDA for restoring sight; the first and only implant to have such approval. This artificial retina is also approved in Europe, Canada, Middle East, and Asia Pacific.  This bioelectronic retina has enabled patients who are totally blind for decades to see large objects and letters and navigate (e.g., avoid obstacles and find doors). Dr. Humayun continues to develop the technology towards providing color vision and reading smaller font.

He has an H factor of 52 with three of his papers alone referenced more than 2,800 times by subsequent researchers. He has 114 issued patents.  For his extraordinary contribution to medicine, engineering, and humanity, he was awarded United States’ highest technological achievement award, the National Medal of Technology and Innovation by President Obama. He is a member of the US National Academies of Medicine, Engineering and Inventors.  Dr. Humayun is an IEEE Fellow and will receive the IEEE Biomedical Engineering Award in July 2018.