Petr Baranov directs the cell transplantation laboratory at the Massachusetts Eye and Ear, Harvard Medical School. His work focuses on restoring vision by developing stem cell–based therapies for diseases that damage the retina. After earning his MD and PhD in Russia, he trained at Harvard, where he helped move the first human retinal progenitor cell therapy program from early laboratory studies to FDA approval for clinical trials. Today, his lab is pioneering new ways to grow and transplant retinal ganglion cells, the nerve cells that connect the eye to the brain, and to improve their survival and function after transplantation.

Dr. Baranov’s team combines stem cell science, advanced imaging, and bioengineering, and works closely with both academic and industry partners to turn discoveries in the lab into treatments for patients. His research is supported by the MGB GCTI, National Eye Institute, Department of Defense, BrightFocus Foundation, Gilbert Family Foundation, and others.