Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute | Indianapolis

The Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute is a premier ophthalmology facility located on the Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI) campus, serving as a center of excellence for eye care, research, and education. Established through a significant philanthropic gift from the Glick family, the institute was designed to consolidate and advance Indiana University’s ophthalmology services and research under one modern, cutting-edge roof.

Location and Building

Situated at 1160 West Michigan Street in downtown Indianapolis, the institute occupies a striking four-story building encompassing approximately 77,000 square feet. Completed and opened in 2011, the structure is prominently positioned on the corner of West Drive and Michigan Avenue, easily accessible to patients, students, and researchers.

The building’s architecture emphasizes transparency and openness, with extensive use of glass to invite natural light, symbolizing the institute’s focus on vision and light. The design integrates clinical, educational, and research spaces in a functional layout that supports collaboration among clinicians, scientists, and trainees.

Clinical Care and Patient Services

The Glick Eye Institute houses the IU Health Physicians Ophthalmology clinic, providing comprehensive, multidisciplinary outpatient eye care. The clinic offers diagnosis, treatment, and management for a wide range of eye conditions and diseases, including:

Cataracts

Glaucoma

Age-related macular degeneration

Diabetic retinopathy

Pediatric ophthalmologic conditions

Strabismus and other eye movement disorders

Patients benefit from access to state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment, advanced surgical suites, and highly trained specialists who deliver personalized care. The outpatient model facilitates convenience and continuity for patients, with appointments coordinated to minimize wait times and optimize outcomes.

Research Excellence

A core mission of the Glick Eye Institute is to lead innovative ophthalmic research, spanning basic science, translational studies, and clinical trials. Nearly half of the institute’s space is dedicated to research laboratories and offices for faculty and graduate students.

The research programs focus on understanding the biological mechanisms underlying eye diseases and developing new therapies to prevent vision loss. Key areas of study include:

Molecular and cellular biology of the retina and optic nerve

Genetics of inherited eye disorders

Development of novel drugs and treatment modalities

Biomedical engineering for vision restoration

The institute’s research impact is nationally recognized; it has consistently increased its funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), elevating its ranking to one of the top ophthalmology research departments in the United States. This robust research environment attracts top-tier faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students dedicated to advancing vision science.

Education and Training

The Glick Eye Institute serves as the educational headquarters for the Indiana University School of Medicine’s Department of Ophthalmology. It offers a rigorous three-year ophthalmology residency program that prepares physicians for clinical excellence and academic careers. In addition, fellowship programs are available in subspecialties such as glaucoma, pediatric ophthalmology, and adult strabismus, providing advanced clinical training.

The institute also facilitates continuing medical education for practicing ophthalmologists and allied health professionals, hosting seminars, workshops, and symposia that foster lifelong learning.

Architectural and Artistic Features

In addition to its functional design, the institute is home to a notable public artwork titled “Open Eyes” by sculptor Don Gummer. This 16-foot-tall stainless steel and colored glass sculpture stands prominently outside the building, symbolizing the vibrant spectrum of colors the human eye can perceive and reflecting the institute’s commitment to vision and clarity.

The building’s transparent facade, light-filled interior spaces, and welcoming atmosphere all contribute to an environment that inspires healing, discovery, and learning.

Accessibility and Visitor Information

Patients and visitors have access to convenient parking options, including a reserved lot at West Michigan Street and Barnhill Drive, as well as nearby public parking garages. The facility is fully accessible, featuring accommodations for individuals with disabilities to ensure comfortable access to all clinical and educational areas.

Contact and appointment scheduling for the IU Health Physicians Ophthalmology clinic are handled through a centralized phone number, streamlining patient services.

Summary

The Eugene and Marilyn Glick Eye Institute represents a landmark advancement in ophthalmic care, research, and education in Indianapolis and beyond. Its combination of cutting-edge clinical facilities, robust research infrastructure, and comprehensive educational programs makes it a leader in vision health.

The institute embodies a holistic approach-integrating patient care, scientific innovation, and professional training-to combat eye diseases, improve treatment options, and ultimately preserve and restore vision for countless individuals. The philanthropic legacy of the Glick family has created a world-class institution that continues to make profound contributions to the field of ophthalmology.