On November 6, 2024, WashU Medicine hosted the installation ceremony of Shiming Chen, PhD, as the Dr. Bernard and Janet R. Becker Distinguished Professor of Ophthalmology. Held in the Farrell Learning and Teaching Center’s Connor Auditorium, the ceremony honored both Dr. Chen’s groundbreaking contributions to the field and the enduring legacy of Dr. Bernard and Janet Becker, whose dedication to ophthalmology and philanthropy continues to inspire innovation.
This was the most inspiring, enjoyable, and memorable ceremony of my life. It was not just a celebration of my journey, but also a testament to the collective support, mentorship, and collaboration that have shaped me.
Shiming Chen, PhD
Honoring Dr. Shiming Chen’s Contributions to Science
Dr. Shiming Chen’s journey to becoming a leader in vision research is one of resilience, dedication, and innovation. Raised in China, Dr. Chen worked in farms and factories as a teenager before pursuing her education in biology. After earning her bachelor’s degree from Beijing Capital Normal University and a master’s degree from the Peking University Institute for Cancer Research, she moved to the United States to complete a PhD in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology at the State University of New York.
Her scientific focus shifted to vision research during her postdoctoral fellowship at Johns Hopkins University, where she studied the cone-rod homeobox (CRX) protein—an essential regulator of retinal photoreceptor development. Since joining the faculty at Washington University in 1998, Dr. Chen has been at the forefront of research into inherited blindness caused by CRX mutations.
Dr. Chen’s lab employs cutting-edge tools like molecular genetics, advanced genomic techniques, and human retinal organoids—miniature “retinas in a dish”—to model and understand the progression of CRX-related diseases. These efforts aim to catalyze the development of treatments, including gene therapies, to restore sight to patients affected by these conditions. Beyond her research, Dr. Chen is a dedicated mentor, guiding the next generation of biomedical scientists as co-director of the Interdisciplinary Training in Vision Sciences (ITVS) program.
The Legacy of Dr. Bernard and Janet Becker
The Becker Professorship, which Dr. Chen now holds, represents a legacy of excellence in ophthalmology and philanthropy. Dr. Bernard Becker, who chaired Washington University’s Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences from 1953 to 1988, was a visionary leader whose research transformed glaucoma management and retinal care. He co-authored seminal texts, published hundreds of articles, and served as the founding editor-in-chief of the Journal of Investigative Ophthalmology.
Dr. Becker’s influence extended beyond the lab, shaping the careers of countless ophthalmologists and researchers. Alongside his wife Janet, a community advocate and champion for affordable housing, the Beckers endowed professorships, supported glaucoma research, and established the Bernard Becker Medical Library. Their shared commitment to education and innovation remains a cornerstone of Washington University’s Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences.
A Night of Celebration and Inspiration
The installation ceremony opened with welcoming remarks from David H. Perlmutter, MD, Dean of the School of Medicine, who reflected on the enduring impact of the Becker Professorship. Todd Margolis, MD, PhD, Chair of the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, introduced Dr. Chen, commending her contributions to vision science and her dedication to mentorship.
Dr. Chen was formally installed as the Dr. Bernard and Janet R. Becker Distinguished Professor by Dr. Perlmutter. In her address, “Fighting Blindness – Lessons from CRX Research,” she shared the significance of her work and her commitment to translating research discoveries into life-changing treatments for patients. Dr. Chen’s visionary efforts, including her use of retinal organoid models and collaborative studies, embody the spirit of innovation that the Becker Professorship symbolizes.
Looking Ahead: Advancing Vision Science
Dr. Shiming Chen’s installation is a celebration of her extraordinary achievements and a testament to the Becker family’s lasting legacy. As Dr. Chen continues her work to uncover solutions for inherited blindness, she represents the future of ophthalmology—a future defined by curiosity, collaboration, and an unwavering commitment to improving lives.
Congratulations to Dr. Chen on this well-deserved honor, and may her work continue to inspire hope and progress for generations to come.