Richard Smith

Richard Smith, M.D., is recognized globally for his expertise in the human genetics of hearing loss. He is the founding director of the Iowa Institute of Human Genetics (IIHG) and the Molecular Otolaryngology and Renal Research Laboratories (MORL) at the University of Iowa, where he is also a professor of otolaryngology, pediatrics, medicine, and molecular physiology & biophysics.

In 1999, the MORL was the first laboratory in the world to offer CLIA-certified genetic testing for hearing loss, and in 2010, it was the first to develop and apply massively parallel sequencing as a clinical test for any disease or disorder. Scientists at the MORL have collaborated in the mapping and/or cloning of about 20% of all genes implicated in non-syndromic hearing loss and remain focused on advancing our understanding of deafness and translating this knowledge to improved care for persons with hearing loss.

Dr. Smith completed his M.D. and otolaryngology residence at Baylor College of Medicine, a fellowship in pediatric otolaryngology at the Hospital for Sick Children, and a postdoctoral fellowship at the Medical Research Council Institute for Hearing Research.