David R. Hardten, MD, FACS, is founding partner, director of the clinical research department and is one of the most prominent leaders in research and education concerning treatments of the cornea. He attended the University of Kansas and then performed his residency in ophthalmology and specialty fellowship training in cornea and external diseases at the University of Minnesota. While at University of Minnesota, Dr Hardten received numerous awards for his achievements, including noteworthy research awards. He entered private practice in 1993. Dr Hardten is an associate professor of ophthalmology at the University of Minnesota, Department of Ophthalmology and plays an important leadership role in the major ophthalmology clinical and research organizations. He also has been selected as a Fellow to the prestigious American College of Surgeons.