Sarah Hamm-Alvarez

Sarah Hamm-Alvarez, PhD, is a Professor of Ophthalmology and Pharmacology and Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Southern California (USC). She serves as Associate Dean for Basic and Translational Research at the USC Keck School of Medicine and Vice Chair for Basic Research at the Roski Eye Institute. Additionally, she directs the Office of Research Development at the Southern California Clinical and Translational Science Institute (SC-CTSI).

Dr. Hamm-Alvarez is an international expert in cellular membrane trafficking and high-resolution imaging, with a focus on regulated exocytosis in acinar cells and its implications for Sjögren’s syndrome and ocular drug delivery. Her work on protein-targeted drug delivery systems and nanoparticle interactions has advanced therapeutic approaches for autoimmune and age-related ocular diseases.

Her recent research highlights include understanding age-related changes in lacrimal gland lipid profiles, miRNA signatures in autoimmune dacryoadenitis, and WAVE protein roles in viral entry mechanisms. These studies intersect with autoimmune diagnostics, protease biology, and nanomedicine.

Scientific Awards:

• AAPS Fellow (2014)
• HERS Representative (2010-2011)
• Gavin S. Herbert Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences (2004-2015)
• John A. Biles Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences (2003)
• Honorary Doctorate from Linnaeus University (2003)
• American Heart Association Initial Investigatorship (1994-1996)
• Muscular Dystrophy Association Postdoctoral Fellow (1991-1993)