The Shiley Eye Institute (SEI) and the Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology at UC San Diego proudly announce the appointment of Shira Robbins, MD, as the second holder of the Anne F. Ratner Chair in Pediatric Ophthalmology.
Robbins is a Professor of Clinical Ophthalmology and holds multiple leadership roles, including Director of Neonatal Ophthalmology, Director of the Myopia Control Clinic, Educational Director for Pediatric Ophthalmology, and Co-Fellowship Director for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Adult Strabismus. Robbins also served as President of the Medical Staff at UC San Diego Health. With more than 110 peer-reviewed publications and editorial roles in leading journals, she has significantly advanced research and patient care in her field.
She is a nationally and internationally recognized leader in pediatric ophthalmology, known for her work as a clinician, surgeon, educator, and innovator. Her contributions include advancing neonatal ophthalmology, improving standards for eye muscle surgery, developing interdisciplinary care models, leading resident and fellow education, and advocating for pediatric physician access.
Reflecting on this honor, Robbins stated, “I am profoundly grateful for the Ratner family’s generosity, which makes this enduring legacy of academic excellence possible. Their support continues to transform the lives of children and families while enabling leaders like me to advance discovery, education, and patient care within pediatric ophthalmology and adult strabismus.”
Wanting children to start their life free of any curable impediments to their eyesight, Anne F. Ratner donated the funds to establish the Anne F. and Abraham Ratner Children’s Eye Center which opened in 1995. Striving to attract expert faculty, she then established the Anne F. Ratner Endowed Chair in Pediatric Ophthalmology.
“Serving the youngest most vulnerable patients, Robbins' appointment embodies our four missions— improving vision health, innovating in research, serving the profession and inspiring future leaders,” stated Robert N. Weinreb, MD, Distinguished Professor and Chair, Viterbi Family Department of Ophthalmology and Director of the Shiley Eye Institute.
UC San Diego Shiley Eye Institute Media Contact:
Naomi Kleinschmit
nkleinschmit@health.ucsd.edu
