Stephen J. Kim

Stephen J. Kim, M.D., is the Phyllis G. and William B. Snyder Chair and Retina Division Chief in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. He is a nationally recognized expert in retinal diseases and uveitis, with extensive experience in both medical and surgical management, including systemic immunosuppression. His clinical expertise includes diabetic retinopathy, retinal vascular disorders, age-related macular degeneration, and ocular infection and inflammation.

• M.D., John Hopkins University
• B.S., Duke University
• Internship: Internal Medicine, Mercy Medical Center, Baltimore, MD
• Residency: Ophthalmology, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins Hospital
• Fellowship: Vitreoretinal Diseases and Surgery, Emory Eye Center
• Fellowship: Ocular Immunology and Uveitis, Wilmer Eye Institute

Dr. Kim’s research focuses on posterior segment uveitis, diabetic macular edema, post-surgical cystoid macular edema, and age-related macular degeneration. He is a leading authority on nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for ocular inflammation and the emergence of antibiotic resistance. His work spans basic, translational, and clinical research domains.

His authored over 230 journal articles and abstracts reflect a sustained contribution to ophthalmic science, particularly in inflammation and retinal pathology. Though specific titles are not listed, his publication record demonstrates deep engagement with clinical trials and therapeutic innovation in retinal medicine.

• Guide to America's Top Ophthalmologist 2011
• Marquis Who's Who in America 2012 (66th Edition)
• Excellence in Clinical Instruction, Vanderbilt University (2010, 2011)
• Ronald G. Michels Fellowship Foundation (2007)
• Margherio Award, The Retina Society (2007)
• Fellowship Research Award, Emory University (2007)
• Heed Ophthalmic Foundation (2007)
• Fellowship Teaching Award, Wilmer Eye Institute (2006)

Dr. Kim actively mentors trainees and leads multiple clinical trials including the ARCaNE, INCITE, PROVE, and PROSPER studies, which investigate antibiotic resistance, intravitreal ketorolac, and post-vitrectomy outcomes. He is a frequent invited speaker at national ophthalmology meetings and contributes significantly to resident and medical student education at Vanderbilt.

He leads the Retina Division and directs research initiatives within the Vanderbilt Eye Institute and the Vanderbilt Vision Research Center. His team focuses on improving outcomes in retinal diseases through innovative therapies and surveillance for antimicrobial resistance.