David C. Musch, Ph.D., M.P.H.
Research Projects

There are always multiple clinical studies in planning, in progress, or nearing completion at the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center. In order to yield findings that are scientifically valid, these studies must be based on an appropriate design and rely on valid methods. Dr. David Musch, an epidemiologist, advises both clinicians and basic scientists about constructing research proposals, designing valid studies, and collecting outcome data. Once the data have been gathered, Dr. Musch is involved with data analysis and preparation of the study's results.

His own research addresses treatment effectiveness, multicenter clinical trial coordination, variation in measurement and diagnostic abilities, and medical outcomes. From 1993 to 2004, Dr. Musch directed the Coordinating Center for the NIH-funded Collaborative Initial Glaucoma Treatment Study. Since that time, he has led extensive analyses of the visual field and health-related quality of life data collected in that study. His multicenter clinical trial involvement and methodological expertise has also led to current involvement in Data and Safety Monitoring Boards for several on-going clinical trials in ophthalmology.

One of his other major interests is the study of corneal transplantation outcomes. His research includes relating donor and patient characteristics to graft function and survival, and assessing quality of life as an important outcome. This research utilizes information that has been continuously collected on a cohort of over 1,500 corneal transplant recipients (the Michigan Corneal Transplantation Patient Registry). His involvement in quality of life assessment has led to ongoing research on quality of life measurement in children with ocular disorders like strabismus and ptosis. In addition to these studies within the department, Dr. Musch participates in research with colleagues in other departments in the Medical School, the School of Public Health, and other institutions.