Esther Biswas-Fiss, PhD is an Associate Professor and Program Director for Biotechnology in the Department of Bioscience Technologies, Jefferson School of Health Professions. Her current research focuses on the structure and function of biologically important proteins, particularly the biochemical consequences of inherited mutations in the retina specific ABCR protein that is genetically linked to macular degenerative diseases such as Stargardt disease, age related macular degeneration and some forms of retinitis pigmentosa. Dr. Biswas-Fiss' research is supported by the NIH/National Eye Institute; American Health Assistance Foundation/Macular Degeneration Program; and Fight for Sight, Inc. An active promoter of biotechnology education throughout the Delaware Valley, Dr. Biswas-Fiss received her PhD in Molecular Bioscience from Rutgers/University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ) and joined Jefferson School of Health Professions in 1999.