UNC Department of Ophthalmology is pleased to recognize Professor of Ophthalmology Mohammad Soleimani, MD, FICO, has been named among the Top 1% Ophthalmology Research Physicians in the United States (2025) by Avant-Garde Health’s Healthcare Research All-Stars program.
In addition to this national distinction, Dr. Soleimani was recently awarded a Cornea Society Research Grant from the Cornea Research Foundation of America for his pioneering work utilizing Virtual Reality (VR) in ophthalmology training and surgical education. This innovative project — entitled, Reality Simulation for Training in Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK): A Pilot Study — aims to develop immersive, simulation-based tools to enhance surgical skill acquisition, improve patient safety, and modernize ophthalmic education.
The Avant-Garde Health Healthcare Research All-Stars program identifies physicians whose research impact places them in the nation’s top percentile, based on publication record, citation influence, and sustained scholarly contribution. The Cornea Research Foundation of America grant recognizes projects that significantly advance the understanding and practice of corneal and external disease management.
Dr. Soleimani’s recognition and grant reflect his continued leadership in advancing ophthalmic science, medical education, and translational innovation. His academic work spans corneal and ocular surface diseases, anterior segment reconstruction, and surgical outcomes research, with a growing focus on integrating technology to transform training and clinical care.