Dr. Jennifer Chao

Dr. Jennifer Chao is a Professor and the Gordon and Joan Bergy Professor in Ophthalmology at the University of Washington, where she serves as Vice Chair of Research. She earned her MD and PhD in Neuroscience from Yale University and completed her ophthalmology residency and vitreoretinal surgery fellowship at the University of Southern California. Dr. Chao has been on the faculty at UW since 2009, specializing in medical and surgical treatments for vitreoretinal diseases.

Her clinical interests include age-related macular degeneration, hereditary retinal degenerations such as retinitis pigmentosa, retinal detachments and tears, diabetic retinopathy, and other complex retinal conditions. Dr. Chao is dedicated to providing the most advanced and compassionate care, partnering with patients to improve their quality of life through up-to-date diagnostic and treatment options.

In addition to patient care, Dr. Chao leads an active research laboratory focused on studying inherited retinal degenerations, with the goal of discovering new therapeutic approaches. She enjoys mentoring residents and fellows, engaging with community groups, and contributing to the advancement of eye disease treatment.