Residency Program Director

Challa

Pratap Challa, MD

Professor of Ophthalmology 

Background

As a physician-scientist investigator, Dr. Challa has a special research interest in the genetic basis of inherited eye diseases. He has active projects investigating the genetics of Pseudoexfoliation associated glaucoma and the cellular basis for glaucoma development. He also studies ocular drug delivery and is involved in developing long-term delivery devices for glaucoma medications. He also investigates novel compounds that may eventually be used for treating glaucoma. In addition to basic science research, he also has clinical research interests including evaluating the effectiveness of new glaucoma therapies.

Challa Honored with the Straatsma Award for Excellence in Resident Education

Pratap Challa receiving the Straastma Award atAUPO 2025.
Dr. Challa with Paul Sternberg Jr, MD, executive vice president and chief operating officer of AUPO.

Dr. Challa was the 2024 Straatsma Awardee for Excellence in Resident Education

The Straatsma Award for excellence in resident education was established through the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the Association of University Professors of Ophthalmology and private funds, and is given to a program director dedicated to the principles and significance of residency education.