Randall J. Olson

Randall J. Olson serves as Professor and Chair of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences and CEO of the John A. Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah. Since joining as the sole ophthalmology faculty member in 1979, he has led the department's growth to over 500 employees, including 30+ ophthalmologists and 25 researchers, establishing it among the world's top vision institutes.

Olson earned his M.D. from the University of Utah School of Medicine. He attained full professorship in 1982, was appointed the inaugural John A. Moran Presidential Chair in 1997, and became Moran Eye Center CEO in 2006.

His research concentrates on cataract surgery complications and infectious ophthalmic diseases, with over 300 publications and international lectureship. Olson emphasizes collaborative research aimed at curing blinding eye diseases, fostering a culture of excellence that earned the Moran Eye Center national prominence.

Notable recognition includes:

• Rosenblatt Prize for Excellence (2014) for forward-thinking leadership

As former president of the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology, Olson's influence extends nationally. He credits the Moran staff and faculty for the institution's success in research, patient care, and academic excellence.