Leadership Transition in the Department of Ophthalmology

After more than a decade of service, Edward Buckley, MD, BSE, will be stepping down as chair of the Department of Ophthalmology, effective June 30, 2026. Dr. Buckley will continue his invaluable contributions to the School of Medicine as the James Pitzer Gills III, MD, and Joy Gills Distinguished Professor of Ophthalmology and vice president of Duke-National University of Singapore Affairs.
 
Dr. Buckley's career has been marked by pioneering advancements in pediatric ophthalmology, neuro-ophthalmology, and transformative educational leadership. Dr. Buckley earned his BSE in Electrical Engineering in 1972 and his MD in 1977 at Duke. Following an internship in medicine, a residency in ophthalmology, and fellowships in pediatric ophthalmology and neuro-ophthalmology at the University of Miami Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, he joined the faculty at Duke in 1983 and has served in numerous leadership roles. From 2007 until 2024, he was vice dean for education for the School of Medicine, leading major curriculum revisions that integrate basic science and clinical training with pedagogical innovations.
 
Dr. Buckley was named chair of the Department of Ophthalmology in 2014. Under his leadership, the department has seen rapid growth. More than 40 faculty have been hired, and the residency program and fellowship program have expanded substantially. New clinics have opened in Holly Springs, Arringdon, and Brier Creek to support growing regional demands. Dr. Buckley established the Foster Center for Ocular Immunology, Center for Pediatric Retinal and Optic Nerve Diseases, Center for Inherited Retinal Diseases, Sports Vision and the Divisions of Ocular Oncology, Global Ophthalmology, and Ocular Immunology. Throughout his tenure, the department has maintained a top 10 ranking by U.S. News and World Report. Research funding and philanthropic support have grown significantly during the past decade.
 
An expert in multiple aspects of pediatric ophthalmology, Dr. Buckley is best known for his research and clinical innovations involving the treatment of complicated strabismus and congenital cataracts. He has served in numerous prestigious positions, including president of the American Association of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, chair of the American Board of Ophthalmology, chair of the Section of Ophthalmology of the American Academy of Pediatrics, and president of the American Orthoptic Council. 
 
We are committed to sustaining and building on the excellence Dr. Buckley has fostered in the Department of Ophthalmology. A review of the department will be conducted in the coming weeks. Howard Francis, MD, MBA, the Richard Hall Chaney, Sr. Distinguished Professor of Otolaryngology and chair of the Department of Head and Neck Surgery & Communication Sciences, will lead a committee in a national search to identify Dr. Buckley’s successor.
 
We extend our deepest gratitude to Dr. Buckley for his leadership and dedication to advancing surgical science and practice. We look forward to his continued contributions to our community and the field of ophthalmology.
 
Sincerely,

Mary E. Klotman, MD
Executive Vice President for Health Affairs,
Duke University;
Dean, Duke University School of Medicine;
Chief Academic Officer, Duke Health 

Craig Albanese, MD, MBA
Chief Executive Officer,
Duke University Health System