Samuel G. Jacobson

January 4, 2023 Philadelphia, PA ? Samuel G. Jacobson, MD, PhD, William C. Frayer Professor of Ophthalmology, a pioneer in retinal research and patient care, passed away at the age of 78. Jacobson founded and directed the Center for Hereditary Retinal Degenerations at the University of Pennsylvania. In his early academic career, starting in 1983, he was recruited as a faculty member by Edward W. D. Norton, MD, Chairman of Bascom Palmer Eye Institute to establish a research and clinical center for retinal degenerations at the University of Miami, School of Medicine. Over his 12 years at UM, he established a highly productive research program of multi-disciplinary scientists and clinicians, all investigating the mechanisms of retinal degeneration before moving his program to the University of Pennsylvania in 1995. In his 40+ year career, he distinguished himself as a caring and compassionate physician, and world-class scientist. He entered the field of inherited retinal diseases when clinical specialists were rare, there was little medical or scientific interest in genetic blindness, and there were no treatments. Over decades, he advanced understanding of the molecular mechanisms and therapies for diseases previously considered incurable. Dr. Jacobson was beloved by thousands of patients worldwide for his outstanding clinical care. He trained many clinician-scientists who have become leaders in the field of retinal degenerations. Among his numerous awards and honors, Jacobson received the Antonio Champalimaud Vision Award in 2018 for his revolutionary work that led to the first gene therapy approved by the FDA for the eye or any inherited condition. He received his MD from the University of Illinois and PhD from the University of London, did residencies at Mass Eye and Ear and Rush Presbyterian, and held fellowships at Mass Eye and Ear and Moorfields Eye Hospital. Known for his subtle sense of humor and love of family, he was an avid Philly sports fan. He is survived by his wife, Jean, daughter, Maxine, and brother, Fruman (Marian). The family requests in lieu of flowers, donations to the Eugenia R. Jacobson and Max M. Jacobson, M.D. Memorial Scholarship Fund (#12772236) at the University of Illinois Foundation.