Mark Greiner

Mark Greiner is a Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, holding the Robert and Joell Brightfelt Professorship in Cornea Research. He serves as Medical Director of the Iowa Lions Eye Bank and Fellowship Director for the Cornea, External Diseases and Refractive Surgery program, with clinical operations based at the Pomerantz Family Pavilion.

His educational journey includes a BA in English from UC Berkeley, an MD from UC Davis School of Medicine, internal medicine internship at UC Davis Medical Center, ophthalmology residency at UC Davis Health System Eye Center, and cornea fellowship at Devers Eye Institute in Portland, Oregon.

Dr. Greiner's research centers on corneal endothelial metabolic function with emphasis on Fuchs' endothelial dystrophy, endothelial keratoplasty techniques (including DMEK), and the role of mitochondrial biology in corneal diseases. His work bridges molecular mechanisms with clinical applications in eye banking and diabetes-related ocular complications, driving innovations in corneal transplantation.

Recent publications (2024-2025) reveal dominant themes in Fuchs dystrophy pathophysiology, advanced corneal imaging, and international consensus development for endothelial keratoplasty standards. His collaborative studies span molecular biology, surgical outcomes, and functional vision assessment using driving simulators.

His distinguished awards reflect excellence in research, teaching, and leadership within ophthalmology:

• Faculty Teaching Award, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine
• Donald D. Heistad Prize for Best Poster Presentation
• P.J. Leinfelder Award for Best Resident Research
• Best Doctors in America recognition
• Cornea Society Best Paper Award
• William E. Scott Research Award
• Junior Faculty of the Year
• Secretariat Award from American Academy of Ophthalmology

As Fellowship Director, Dr. Greiner mentors cornea specialists while leading the Iowa Lions Eye Bank. His grant-funded work through the Institute for Vision Research and Fraternal Order of Eagles Diabetes Research Center focuses on translational corneal science.

He maintains active collaborations with the Center for Biocatalysis and Bioprocessing and Institute for Vision Research, advancing diabetic eye disease research and corneal tissue preservation techniques through multidisciplinary teams.