Dr. Anna Ablamowicz Tichenor is a distinguished clinician scientist specializing in optometry and vision science. Holding an OD from Southern College of Optometry and a PhD in Vision Science from the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Doctor Tichenor brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role at Indiana University School of Optometry.
Joining the faculty in 2019 and achieving a tenure-track Assistant Professor position in 2023, Doctor Tichenor is deeply involved in both research and clinical practice. She directs the Dry Eye Clinic at Atwater Eye Care Center, providing patient care while also serving as a clinician scientist at the Borish Center for Ophthalmic Research. This dual role underscores her commitment to translating scientific findings into practical treatments for patients.
Doctor Tichenor‘s primary research interests center on ocular surface diseases, with a significant focus on dry eye disease and neurosensory conditions like neuropathic pain. Her research delves into the intricate relationship between inflammation, aging, and hormones and their impact on ocular mucins within the tear film and glycocalyx. Her doctoral work honed her skills in translational research, enabling her to effectively bridge the gap between laboratory discoveries and clinical solutions for dry eye disease.
Beyond her academic pursuits, Doctor Tichenor is actively involved in industry-sponsored research and clinical trials. Her experience includes evaluating novel treatments for dry eye disease in FDA trials and conducting research related to contact lenses. Her contributions to the field are evident in her publications in respected journals such as Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science, Cornea, and Molecular Vision. She regularly presents her research at prestigious conferences, including the American Academy of Optometry and the Association of Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO).
Doctor Tichenor is recognized as a Fellow of the American Academy of Optometry, highlighting her professional standing and contributions to optometry. She is also an active member of several leading professional organizations, including the Indiana Optometric Association, ARVO, and the Tear Film and Ocular Surface Society (TFOS). Through her research, clinical work, and professional engagement, Doctor Tichenor is making significant strides in understanding and treating ocular surface diseases, particularly dry eye, enhancing the quality of life for countless individuals.
