Daphna Mezad-Koursh, MD Joins Department of Ophthalmology

Dr. Daphna Mezad-Koursh, a distinguished ophthalmologist with expertise in strabismus and pediatric eye care, has joined the faculty of the Department of Ophthalmology at Columbia University Irving Medical Center as an Associate Professor of Ophthalmology.

With clinical expertise spanning adult and pediatric strabismus, amblyopia, pediatric cataracts, retinopathy of prematurity, and strabismus surgery, Dr. Mezad brings extensive clinical experience and a deep commitment to both patient care and medical education. She earned her medical degree from Ben-Gurion University of the Negev. After completing her residency, she pursued a pediatric ophthalmology and strabismus fellowship at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, DC, in 2013, and most recently served for five years as head of the Pediatric Ophthalmology Division at Tel Aviv Medical Center.

Dr. Mezad has been actively involved in leading professional associations, including the International Strabismological Association, American Association for Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus (AAPOS), World Society of Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus, Israeli Pediatric Ophthalmology and Strabismus Society, American Academy of Ophthalmology (International Member), Costenbader Society, and the Israeli Ophthalmological Society.

Dr. Mezad has authored numerous peer‑reviewed publications and frequently presents her work at international ophthalmology conferences. Her dedication to teaching and clinical excellence has been recognized with multiple honors, including the Dean’s Prize for Best Teachers from the Faculty of Medicine at Tel Aviv University (2022).

In her new role, Dr. Mezad will contribute to the department’s clinical, educational, and academic missions while providing specialized ophthalmic care to pediatric and adult patients. She will see patients at Morgan Stanley Children’s Hospital of New York and New York‑Presbyterian.