Professor Axel Petzold (Professor of Neurology) on "The eye as a window to the brain"
Before embarking on his medical journey, Professor Petzold studied Logic with Ulrich Felgner and Statistics with Eberhard Siebert at the University of Tübingen (Germany). This foundational academic pursuit laid the groundwork for his subsequent distinguished tenure at the Medical University of Freiburg (Germany), where he achieved the highest academic distinction, earning his MD in Experimental Ophthalmology (Psychophysics) with summa cum laude honours under the esteemed mentorship of Ted Sharpe. Following this achievement, he dedicated himself to further academic pursuits, completing his PhD in Biochemistry under the guidance of Ed Thompson at University College London.
Throughout his career, Professor Petzold has undertaken comprehensive neurology training in multiple countries, including France (Lyon), Germany (Munich), and the United Kingdom (London). Currently, he holds a prominent position as a consultant neurologist at two leading institutions: Moorfields Eye Hospital (MEH) on City Road and The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery (UCLH NHNN) in Queen Square, London, UK. In addition to his work in the UK, he also serves as a consultant neurologist at the esteemed Amsterdam University Medical Centre (AUMC). At AUMC, he had the honour of leading as the Director of the Dutch Expertise Centre for Neuro-ophthalmology (2013-2022), where he contributed to cutting-edge research and specialised clinical care.
Over the years, he has played a pivotal role as the chairman for neuro-ophthalmology within the European Reference Networks (ERN) for Rare Diseases (RD), specifically ERN-EYE (www.ern-eye.eu) from 2016 to 2020. This leadership role allowed me to contribute significantly to advancing the field of neuro-ophthalmology within the context of rare diseases.
Professor Petzold's primary research focus lies in the recognition, prevention, and treatment of axonal degeneration and demyelination in Multiple Sclerosis and Optic Neuritis. He is deeply committed to advancing our understanding of these complex neurological conditions and finding innovative solutions for patients. In addition to his primary research interest, he maintains an open-minded approach to other diseases and models. He is enthusiastic about learning from and contributing to research in various areas, as he believes interdisciplinary collaboration is key to advancing medical knowledge and patient care. His passion for medical research and dedication to improving the lives of patients drives his pursuit of excellence in the field of neurology and neuro-ophthalmology.
"Giving my inaugural lecture was a truly memorable occasion, made possible by the incredible support of the UCL Institute of Neurology Team, thank you for everything. I am also deeply grateful to my wonderful nurses and colleagues for their unwavering support. And to my dear friends and family, thank you for always keeping me laughing, your humour has been a constant source of strength." Prof. Axel Petzold.
Introduction and closing remarks were given by Professor Alex Leff, IoN Deputy Director (Education) and vote of thanks by Sir Peter John Goulden GCMG.
Image: Sir Peter John Goulden GCMG, Professor Axel Petzold, Professor Alex Leff
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