22 January 2026
Professor José Cunha-Vaz passed away at the age of 88. He was an ophthalmologist, Emeritus Full Professor at the University of Coimbra, and one of the most influential figures in vision research in Portugal and internationally.
A long-standing friend and collaborator of the Champalimaud Foundation, he played a decisive role in the global recognition of vision science and in strengthening the connection between research, clinical practice, and innovation.
José Cunha-Vaz was a central figure in the development of modern ophthalmology, distinguished as a researcher, clinician, educator, and scientific leader. His close and enduring relationship with the Champalimaud Foundation included serving as a member of the jury of the António Champalimaud Vision Award from its early years. His involvement contributed decisively to the scientific credibility and international prestige of what is now one of the world’s leading prizes in the area of vision.
As a member of the Champalimaud Foundation’s advisory bodies, particularly in the scientific and ethics areas, he was a respected and influential voice in promoting translational research and a patient-centred approach, principles that deeply shaped his career and scientific thinking.
Founder of the Institute for Biomedical Research in Light and Image (IBILI) and the Association for Biomedical Research and Innovation in Light and Image (AIBILI) in Coimbra, José Cunha-Vaz was instrumental in creating a national ecosystem for vision research. Under his leadership, AIBILI became an internationally recognised reference centre and later joined the Champalimaud Translational Centre for Eye Research (C-TRACER) network, consolidating a strategic bridge in clinical research on retinal diseases.
Author of more than 500 scientific articles and books, he dedicated much of his life to the study of diabetic retinopathy and retinal vascular diseases, fields in which he achieved worldwide recognition. Throughout his career, he received numerous national and international awards and honours, including the BIAL Award for Clinical Medicine, the National Health Award, several gold medals from European ophthalmology societies, election to the Academia Ophthalmologica Internationalis, and founding membership of the European Academy of Ophthalmology.
The Champalimaud Foundation deeply mourns the loss of Professor José Cunha-Vaz and extends its heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues. His scientific, ethical, and human legacy will remain a lasting reference for all those committed to preventing avoidable blindness and advancing knowledge in ophthalmology.
