Delia Cabrera DeBuc, Research Associate Professor at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute, University of Miami, spent two months at Semmelweis University on a Fulbright scholarship at the end of 2023 at the invitation of Associate Professor Dr. Miklós Resch and Dr. Zoltán Zsolt Nagy, Director of the Department of Ophthalmology. Delia Cabrera DeBuc studied telemedical image analysis and the application of artificial intelligence in ophthalmology.

Professor DeBuc received her PhD in applied physics at the University of Michigan in 2002. She moved to Miami more than 20 years ago, where she runs a research lab at the Bascom Palmer Eye Institute. Not only does the institute excel in patient care, having been ranked as “No.1. eye hospital in the US” several times, but it also pioneers research and innovation.

The visiting researcher has been involved in the development of several image analysis software, such as fundus photography and OCT, for an early diagnosis of diabetes. Her other areas of interest include early ocular signs and screening for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s, and the study of brain-eye connections. The professor has focused her research on telemedicine image analysis and the application of AI in ophthalmology. With the support of Dr. Zoltán Zsolt Nagy, Director of the Department of Ophthalmology, Professor DeBuc presented her ongoing projects to the department staff, in addition to developing imaging tests using special portable devices, including mobile phones. After her brief presentation, participants could ask questions and discuss the opportunities for trainee doctors and medical students to get involved in the future. As a follow-up to the fellowship, the professor will return to the university in autumn 2024.

Photo and text by the Department of Ophthalmology
Translation: Judit Szabados-Dőtsch