The University of Iowa (UI) is proud to announce that Dr. Kanwal Singh Matharu, assistant professor of ophthalmology and visual sciences in the Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the UI Carver College of Medicine, has been awarded a Fulbright for fall 2025. He will collaborate with the Research Institute of Ophthalmology (RIO) in Giza, Egypt, to help improve research systems and strengthen international partnerships in eye care.
While in Egypt, Matharu will learn how doctors and researchers there manage patient care, conduct research, and use electronic medical records. He’ll also take part in community health efforts like large-scale cataract surgeries and disease screenings.
“I enjoy research and education, and I’m passionate about providing care for all people,” said Matharu. “Our colleagues abroad deliver clinical and surgical care at the highest level, but often lack the time, mentorship, and research experience we benefit from in the U.S. My goal is to connect eager, curious learners with educators ready to share their expertise.”
Matharu’s current work includes studying the cornea and surface of the eye and helping teach remotely. His Fulbright experience will build on this by creating stronger ties between Iowa and RIO. He hopes students and surgeons from both institutes will visit each other to learn and share ideas.
The Fulbright Specialist Program will also support Matharu’s broader mission to formalize global ophthalmology initiatives at Iowa. Since joining the university in 2023, he has launched partnerships with institutions in India and Zambia, and has built relationships in Tanzania, Ghana, Ethiopia, and Nepal—connecting Iowa’s medical students and residents with surgeons abroad to improve outcomes and share knowledge.
Matharu encourages fellow UI faculty to consider Fulbright opportunities: “The University of Iowa has a robust and proud track record of success with the Fulbright! Share the knowledge you have with those who are seeking it. We have a local PhD expert [Dr. Karen Wachsmuth, associate director of international fellowships], who edited my application and helped me greatly.”
International Programs (IP) at the University of Iowa (UI) is committed to enriching the global experience of UI students, faculty, staff, and the general public by leading efforts to promote internationally oriented teaching, research, creative work, and community engagement. IP provides support for international students and scholars, administers scholarships and assistance for students who study, intern, or do research abroad, and provides funding opportunities and grant-writing assistance for faculty engaged in international research. IP shares their stories through various media, and by hosting multiple public engagement activities each year.