Patricia Grant, Ph.D.

Chief Research Officer; The Lauren M. Ross Chair in Low Vision Research

Dr. Patricia Grant is the Chief Research Officer at The Chicago Lighthouse and Adjunct Assistant Professor in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). Her research focuses on the development and evaluation of innovative methods to improve rehabilitation outcomes for people who are blind and visually impaired. With a commitment to interdisciplinary collaboration, Dr. Grant has been involved in groundbreaking studies that bridge the gap between vision science, public health, psychology, and assistive technology. She is a member of the Intracortical Visual Prosthesis (ICVP) Study Team and is currently working on designing and assessing rehabilitation strategies to improve functional vision for implant recipients.

As an advocate for person-centered care, Dr. Grant actively engages in outreach initiatives to promote awareness about vision health and rehabilitation options. She played a key role in establishing the Diabetes Prevention Program at The Chicago Lighthouse, leading to the enrollment of over 100 participants who reduced their risk of diabetes and future vision-related complications. She has published in peer-reviewed journals and has been invited to speak at national and international conferences to share her insights on the future of vision rehabilitation. As the Program Director for the “Stronger Together” initiative (in partnership with the Cook County Office of Behavioral Health), she is committed to breaking down barriers to mental health care to ensure that care is accessible for everyone.

In addition to her research, Dr. Grant serves as the President of the Chicago Central Lions Club and holds positions on multiple professional committees, such as the Public Health and Policy Committee at Prevent Blindness. She earned a Master of Science and doctorate degree from the School of Public Health at UIC.