Academic/Faculty/Research Physician

The University of Florida stands as a premier institution within the academic and medical community, renowned for its commitment to excellence in education, research, and patient care. Its ophthalmology department is particularly distinguished, boasting a high-volume regional referral center known for advancing the field of cornea specialty. As part of this esteemed establishment, the role of an Academic Cornea Ophthalmologist offers a unique balance of clinical practice, academic involvement, and leadership opportunities within a vibrant intellectual environment.

This position is specially designed for ophthalmologists who have chosen to dedicate their careers to the complex and rewarding subspecialty of cornea diseases and disorders. The practice is focused exclusively on cornea specialty with no general ophthalmology duties or cataract volume pressure, allowing the physician to concentrate fully on advanced corneal cases reflective of their fellowship training. Join a respected academic cornea program in the Southeast that prioritizes work-life balance, maintains a structured and predictable schedule of 4.5 clinical days per week with additional protected administrative time, and limits on-call responsibilities to only 2-3 weeks per year. The on-call burden is minimized as residents and fellows handle first-line calls with attending supervision, ensuring the physician’s life outside the hospital is respected and maintained.

The work location is optimized for efficiency with clinic and ambulatory surgical center (ASC) co-located at a single site, eliminating the need for travel between different facilities and thereby maximizing patient care time and personal time. The department fosters a strong culture of mentorship, with senior faculty providing guidance and clear pathways for academic advancement, leadership roles, and active participation in national societies.

Compensation for this role is highly competitive within academic medicine. The salary structure reflects both the workload and the substantial emphasis on work-life balance. It includes RVU-based productivity incentives that translate into significant long-term earning potential. Additional support for a seamless transition into the role is offered via sign-on bonuses and relocation assistance. Benefits are comprehensive, including no-cost physician health insurance, malpractice insurance with tail coverage for peace of mind, and a robust retirement plan supported by employer contributions, contributing to long-term financial security. Furthermore, this position is eligible for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF), which is an attractive advantage for those managing educational debt.

Candidates for the Academic Cornea Ophthalmologist position should hold fellowship training specifically in cornea ophthalmology and be board-certified or board-eligible. The role demands clinical comfort and expertise in managing complex corneal and anterior segment pathology. An essential aspect of the position involves engagement with academic medicine—with a passion for teaching, mentoring, and contributing to the intellectual vitality of a leading research institution.

The community surrounding the university enriches the professional and personal lives of its physicians. Located in a city largely influenced by the University of Florida, it offers a stimulating and supportive environment with short commutes, a centralized medical campus, and an affordable cost of living that enhances the value of the compensation package. The area embraces the vibrant energy typical of college towns, featuring world-class athletic events, a thriving dining and arts scene, and activities that keep the community bustling year-round. Geographically, it provides convenient access to both Gulf and Atlantic beaches within two hours, with Orlando less than 90 minutes away, combining opportunities for professional fulfillment with an exceptional quality of life. It is a destination for physicians seeking a meaningful career rather than merely a step along the way.