Mary Elizabeth Hartnett

About Mary Elizabeth Hartnett

Distinguished Professor in Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, University of Utah; Calvin S. and JeNeal N. Hatch Presidential Endowed Chair in Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Director of Pediatric Retina, Vitreoretinal Medical and Surgical Service; and Principal Investigator Retinal Angiogenesis Laboratory, University of Utah, John A. Moran Eye Center, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA

What is your proudest professional achievement?

There are two. The first was graduating from medical school and taking the Hippocratic oath. I’m the first physician in my family, but the importance of service and education has been emphasized and practiced by my family and parents. Both are important in medicine to care for patients. The second was being awarded my first R01 grant from NEI/NIH in 2004. This allowed me to address the questions that are important to reduce patient disease and suffering by using scientific methods and approach to seek truth.

Outside of ophthalmology, what makes you happy?

I enjoy spending time with my husband and family. With COVID-19, I haven’t been able to see my family in over a year. My husband and I both enjoy art and painting. When we are able, we participate in art courses as a form of vacation. We also both enjoy working out and being active.

Why is it important to celebrate women in the field this way?

This is a wonderful honor to celebrate some of the many women in science and ophthalmology who have, and are, making a difference with the work they do worldwide.