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A former scientific project and alliance manager at the Allen Institute for Brain Science in Seattle recently was named the new director of research for UNT Health Fort Worth’s North Texas Eye Research Institute, guiding its next phase of growth and innovation.

David Vumbaco, Ph.D., started his new job Nov. 3 and will focus on building community partnerships and expanding research opportunities.

“I’m honored to join NTERI as director of research at a pivotal moment in its evolution,” Vumbaco said. “The institute’s mission deeply aligns with my personal commitment to advancing research and creating lasting impact at the intersection of science and community. I’m excited to collaborate with the institute’s exceptional teams to drive transformative discoveries, forge strategic partnerships and expand our reach.

“The next generation of scientists, clinicians and innovators isn’t drawn to stagnancy. They seek environments where ideas are nurtured, tested and scaled. I believe NTERI’s culture can be that magnet for bold thinking and purposeful innovation, and I’m eager to help shape that future.”

Vumbaco earned his doctorate in neuroscience and physiology from Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans before serving as a scientific project and alliance manager at the Allen Institute for Brain Science in Seattle.

His experience in advancing scientific innovation and partnerships will help guide the institute into the future, further strengthening its leadership in visual sciences.

“We are thrilled to welcome Dr. Vumbaco as our new director of research,” said Dimitrios Karamichos, Ph.D., vice president of research and graduate studies at UNT Health and executive director of NTERI. “Dr. Vumbaco joins our dynamic team of researchers at a pivotal time of growth—not only in research excellence but also in expanding student opportunities and helping ensure our legacy for years to come.”

For more than 30 years, NTERI has advanced the frontiers of visual sciences through basic and clinical research. Its scientists have received national and international recognitions for their contributions to the field. The institute remains committed to leading the scientific community as a world-renowned educational authority seeking to strengthen healthcare systems and develop effective interventions to combat eye diseases and disorders.