Mark S. Humayun
Biography
A pioneer in vision restoration, Mark S. Humayun’s development of the Argus II bioelectric artificial retina is improving patient quality of life by restoring sight to the blind. The first and to date only artificial retina to be both approved by the U.S. FDA and receive the European CE mark, the device receives image data from an external camera that is wirelessly transmitted to an electronic array implanted on the retina, enabling patients who are blind to recover enough vision to see letters and large objects and navigate obstacles. Key to the realization of the implant was Humayun’s ability to lead diverse teams of engineers and combine the unique elements of electrical/biomechanical engineering, optics, materials science, and miniaturization. Humayun’s current focus with the implant is on providing color vision and the ability to read smaller text.
