Retina International warmly congratulates Professor José-Alain Sahel, MD, FARVO, Co-chair of our Scientific and Medical Advisory Board (SMAB), on receiving the prestigious Proctor Medal, one of the highest honors bestowed by the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO).
The ARVO Achievement Awards recognise exceptional individuals for their groundbreaking contributions to ophthalmology and visual science. Professor Sahel’s selection as the 2026 recipient of the Proctor Medal is a testament to his outstanding leadership, relentless innovation, and lifelong dedication to advancing treatments for retinal diseases.
Currently the Endowed Distinguished Professor and Chairman of Ophthalmology at the University of Pittsburgh/UPMC, Professor Sahel is also the founder of the Vision Institute in Paris and the UPMC Vision Institute. His team’s pioneering research into photoreceptor degeneration has led to significant advancements in gene-independent therapies, artificial retina technologies, gene therapy, neuroprotection, and optogenetics. These efforts have culminated in several first-in-human clinical trials that are redefining the future of vision restoration.
Among his many accolades, Professor Sahel was awarded the 2024 Scientific Award at the Rare Disease Europe Black Pearl Awards this past February, recognising his tireless work on behalf of individuals living with Rare Eye Diseases. He is a recipient of the Wolf Prize in Medicine, alongside Botond Roska, and is a member of numerous esteemed institutions including the Académie des Sciences-Institut de France, German National Academy of Sciences Leopoldina, and the National Academy of Inventors.
At Retina International, we are proud to work alongside Professor Sahel in our shared mission to drive innovation and improve the lives of people living with retinal degenerative conditions. His leadership as Co-Chair of our SMAB and his achievements inspire our global community and give hope to millions worldwide.
Congratulations, Professor Sahel, on this well-deserved recognition.
