Goldis Malek

Goldis Malek serves as Professor of Ophthalmology and Vice Chair of Academic Excellence and Engagement at Duke University School of Medicine, with additional appointments as Professor in the Department of Pathology and Associate Professor of Cell Biology. She is also a Faculty Network Member of the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, reflecting her interdisciplinary research profile.

Her academic credentials include:

• Ph.D., University of Alabama, Birmingham (2002)
• Postdoctoral Trainee, University of Alabama, Birmingham, Research (2002)

Dr. Malek's research program focuses on the molecular pathogenesis of age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of central vision loss in the elderly. Her laboratory investigates lipid-mediated injury mechanisms in retinal pigment epithelial (RPE) cells and the role of nuclear receptors (PPARs, LXRs, AhR) in driving drusen formation, Bruch's membrane alterations, and inflammation in dry AMD. She also explores pathogenic pathways in geographic atrophy and neovascular AMD subtypes, with emphasis on identifying novel therapeutic targets through molecular and cellular approaches.

Analysis of her publication record reveals consistent thematic focus on nuclear receptor signaling, mitochondrial dysfunction in retinal tissues, and inflammation pathways in AMD. Her work bridges fundamental molecular mechanisms with translational applications, developing preclinical models for therapeutic testing and establishing measurable endpoints for clinical intervention studies.

Dr. Malek actively mentors students and researchers in her laboratory environment and has secured substantial grant funding including:

• Deciphering the role of osteopontin in the aging eye and AMD (2023-2027)
• Nuclear receptor driven mechanisms in aging and AMD (2021-2025)
• Regulation of inflammation and lipid homeostasis by the aryl hydrocarbon receptor in AMD (2018-2023)

She leads a specialized research laboratory within the Duke Eye Center that employs advanced cellular and animal models to investigate AMD pathogenesis. Her team maintains active collaborations across departments and with the Duke Institute for Brain Sciences, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to understanding retinal degeneration mechanisms and developing innovative therapeutic strategies.