Filomena Ribeiro, MD, Chair of the Ophthalmology Department at Hospital da Luz Lisbon and professor of Ophthalmology and Biomedical Engineering at the University of Lisbon, has become the new president of the European Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ESCRS), effective December 31, 2023, succeeding Prof. Dr. Oliver Findl.
Dr. Ribeiro brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. Holding a Ph.D. in Biomedical Engineering from the University of Lisbon, her dissertation titled "Personalized Pseudophakic eye model for IOL power calculation" reflects her commitment to advancing the understanding and application of intraocular lens (IOL) technology.
Her educational background extends beyond the realm of medicine, as she holds a postgraduate degree in Leadership from the Pan-American Association of Ophthalmology (PAAO) and management for healthcare institutions from the AESE Business School. Additionally, she is a Fellow of the European Board of Ophthalmology, showcasing her dedication to maintaining the highest standards in her field.
Dr. Ribeiro's leadership roles within the Portuguese ophthalmological community have been numerous and impactful. She has served as Chair of the Portuguese Group of Ocular Inflammation and the Portuguese Group of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. Furthermore, she held key positions as a Board member and Secretary of the Portuguese Ophthalmology College, demonstrating her commitment to the growth and development of the profession at both national and international levels.
As the National representative of the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS), Dr. Ribeiro has been a vocal advocate for the advancement of medical standards and practices across borders, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange.
Her dedication to education is evident in her role as the Director of Cataract Surgery simulated courses in Portugal. Dr. Ribeiro has also been instrumental as a member of the National Ophthalmology Jury and an Examiner for the European Board of Ophthalmology (EBO) and EBO-CR, contributing to the evaluation and recognition of expertise in the field.
Dr. Ribeiro's multifaceted involvement in research includes being a researcher at the Visual Sciences Research Centre and the Plasma Physics, Laser, and Nuclear Fusion Department at Lisbon University. Additionally, she serves as the Principal Investigator of the Learning Health Vision Group at Hospital da Luz Lisbon. Her research interests span a wide spectrum, focusing on IOL power calculation, presbyopia correction, and cataract surgery innovation.