Rate Professor David Mackey

Professional Summary: Professor David Mackey

Professor David Mackey is a distinguished ophthalmologist and geneticist based at the University of Western Australia (UWA). Renowned for his contributions to the field of ophthalmic genetics, he has made significant advancements in understanding the genetic basis of eye diseases, particularly glaucoma. His work bridges clinical practice and cutting-edge research, positioning him as a leading figure in medical genetics and vision science.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Mackey holds the following qualifications:

• MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery) from the University of Tasmania, Australia.
• MD (Doctor of Medicine) with a focus on ophthalmic genetics.
• Fellowship of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists (FRANZCO).
• Fellowship of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists (FRCOphth), UK.

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Mackey’s research primarily focuses on the genetics of eye diseases, with a particular emphasis on glaucoma, one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide. His interests include:

• Genetic epidemiology of ocular disorders.
• Twin studies to explore heritability of eye conditions.
• Identification of genetic risk factors for glaucoma and other vision impairments.
• Translational research to improve clinical outcomes for patients with genetic eye diseases.

Career History and Appointments

Professor Mackey has held numerous prestigious positions throughout his career:

• Professor of Ophthalmology at the University of Western Australia, Perth.
• Managing Director of the Lions Eye Institute, Perth, a leading center for vision research and clinical care.
• Previous academic and clinical roles at the University of Melbourne and the University of Tasmania.
• International collaborations with institutions such as the University of Oxford and Harvard Medical School.

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Professor Mackey has been recognized for his contributions to ophthalmology and genetics with several notable accolades:

• Glaucoma Research Society Award for outstanding contributions to glaucoma research.
• Elected Fellow of the Australian Academy of Health and Medical Sciences (FAHMS).
• Recipient of the Alcon Research Institute Award for excellence in vision research.
• Multiple grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) of Australia for his groundbreaking work in ophthalmic genetics.

Key Publications

Professor Mackey has authored and co-authored numerous influential papers and articles in high-impact journals. A selection of his key works includes:

• 'Genome-wide association study identifies susceptibility loci for open angle glaucoma at TMCO1 and CDKN2B-AS1' - Nature Genetics, 2011.
• 'Common variants near ABCA1, AFAP1 and GMDS confer risk of primary open-angle glaucoma' - Nature Genetics, 2014.
• 'The genetic architecture of ocular traits: Insights from twin studies' - Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, 2009.
• 'Glaucoma genetics: Recent advances and future directions' - Ophthalmic Genetics, 2019.

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Mackey’s research has had a profound impact on the understanding of genetic mechanisms underlying glaucoma and other eye diseases. His work on genome-wide association studies (GWAS) has identified critical genetic markers, paving the way for personalized medicine in ophthalmology. Through large-scale twin studies, he has provided robust evidence on the heritability of ocular traits, influencing both research methodologies and clinical approaches globally. His leadership at the Lions Eye Institute has also fostered a collaborative environment for vision research in Australia.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Mackey is actively involved in the academic and professional community:

• Regular speaker at international conferences such as the World Glaucoma Congress and the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO) Annual Meeting.
• Member of the Glaucoma Research Society and other international ophthalmology organizations.
• Serves on editorial boards of prominent journals, including Ophthalmic Genetics and Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology.
• Advisor to national and international committees on vision health and genetic research policies.