Ophthalmologist recognised with CBE

An ophthalmologist and Professor of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences at Queen’s University Belfast has been awarded a CBE in the Queen’s Birthday’s Honours List. Professor Usha Chakravarthy was recognised for “services to ophthalmology in Northern Ireland and voluntary service to managing eye conditions.”

Based in the Centre for Experimental Medicine at the university, Professor Chakravarthy is known internationally for her research into the preservation of human vision, in particular studies on age-related macular degeneration. She has acted as the chief investigator in multi-centre clinical trials and studies, and currently heads up several large national research projects investigating all forms of macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy.

Speaking about the honour, Professor Chakravarthy, said: “On a personal level I am delighted to be a recipient of this award. However, I am very conscious that the award is an acknowledgement of my career within the health service and academia in Northern Ireland, which would not have been possible without the encouragement and support of my colleagues locally, nationally and internationally.”

The Health and Social Care Board welcomed the news, with its head of ophthalmic services, Raymond Curran saying it was “highly deserved.” Mr Curran added: “Professor Chakravarthy is internationally acclaimed for her research and clinical excellence in the preservation of human vision. She has been an esteemed member of the Developing Eyecare Partnerships strategic Project Board and continues to contribute widely to improve the provision of eye care in Northern Ireland.

“Her expertise has been central to major pathway redesign which has benefited many patients in Northern Ireland.”