Sara Abboud, OD

WHERE I'M FROM

Mead Valley, California.

BEFORE VS

I completed my undergraduate studies at UC Irvine where I received my Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences. Following graduation, I worked as a licensed optician while applying to optometry school. I was later admitted to the UC Berkeley School of Optometry where I completed my Doctor of Optometry degree.

WHY I’M HERE & MY GOALS

I hope to advance our understanding of the role microbes play in ocular surface diseases and ocular health. In addition to this, I hope to remain an active and dedicated healthcare professional by providing comprehensive eye care to the Bay Area. As a low-income, first-generation minority student, I also aim to serve as an advocate for underrepresented students throughout various levels of higher education.

MY RESEARCH

During my undergraduate studies, I conducted research on the antibiotic resistance crisis and the human gut microbiome under the Small World Initiative Program. These projects served as a gateway towards blending my interests in pathogenic multi-resistant bacteria and the anterior segment of the eye. During optometry school, I completed the NEI T-35 Summer Research program in the Fleiszig-Evans lab where I studied the infection mechanisms of Pseudomonas aeruginosa on murine corneal epithelial cells. Following this program, I remained involved in the lab where I now study the transcriptional adaptations and survival of Pseudomonas aeruginosa in tear fluid and tear-like fluid.

MY HOBBIES

Concert alto saxophonist, drawing and oil painting, running, local volunteer work.