Recognized by KeraLink International at our recent Corneatopia event, Julie Kornfield, the Elizabeth W. Gilloon Professor of Chemical Engineering at Caltech, is an expert in polymer physics, including the physical properties of ocular tissues (cornea, sclera, vitreous). Her work spans from fundamental research on the molecular basis of polymer structure and properties, to commercialization of polymers that improve sustainability, health, and safety. She is a co-founder of RxSight and led the development of the material now used to make intraocular lens implants that can be adjusted non-invasively after implantation. Her research on the cornea of the eye includes in vitro studies of guided tissue regeneration, therapeutic crosslinking, and biolistic drug delivery. Her current goal is to develop low-cost, large-scale technologies to provide people around the world, including those in resource-poor settings, with the best-corrected vision without spectacles. She is a member of the National Academy of Inventors and the National Academy of Engineers.
Julie Kornfield’s work aligns closely with the mission of KeraLink International in the fight against corneal blindness and the pursuit of accessible eye care solutions. Much like KeraLink’s initiatives that restore sight through innovative, sustainable technologies, Kornfield’s research aims to make vision correction affordable and accessible, particularly in resource-poor communities. Her development of non-invasive, adjustable intraocular lenses and research into tissue regeneration represent the kind of cutting-edge advancements that KeraLink strives to implement on a global scale. For these reasons, Kornfield was awarded the Pioneer in Vision Technology Award by KeraLink International in 2024.
Kornfield’s dedication to creating low-cost, scalable technologies echoes KeraLink’s commitment to eliminating preventable blindness, making her contributions essential to the broader effort of ensuring that everyone, no matter their background, has access to the vision care they need. Through innovative solutions and global partnerships, both Kornfield and KeraLink are working toward a world where sight restoration is within reach for all.
