Michala Henriksen
DVM, PhD, Dipl. ACVO
Michala Henriksen, also known as Michala de Linde Henriksen, is an internationally recognized veterinary ophthalmologist whose career spans continents and combines cutting-edge research, advanced clinical expertise, and a deep passion for teaching the next generation of veterinary specialists.
Originally from Denmark, Michala Henriksen has built an impressive career dedicated to improving eye health in animals through innovative treatments, with a special focus on alternative and regenerative medicine.
Currently, she serves as an Associate Professor of Comparative Ophthalmology at North Carolina State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine (NCSU CVM), where she plays a key role in both clinical care and academic leadership.
Her work is transforming how veterinarians approach ocular diseases in dogs, horses, and other companion animals, making her a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the field.
Academic Journey and International Training
Michala Henriksen earned her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree from the University of Copenhagen in 2005. Her interest in eye health quickly evolved into a specialization in ophthalmology, and she embarked on a rigorous training path that took her to the United States.
From 2009 to 2012, she completed a comparative ophthalmology residency at the University of Florida, gaining extensive experience in treating both small and large animal patients.
During this time, she also began her PhD in equine ophthalmology, a joint program between the University of Copenhagen and the University of Florida under the mentorship of renowned ophthalmologist Dr. David Brooks.
Her PhD research deepened her expertise in equine eye diseases, with a particular focus on equine recurrent uveitis (ERU), one of the most challenging and vision-threatening conditions in horses – a foundation that aligns closely with modern equine ocular pathology training designed for veterinarians seeking deeper clinical insight.
Career Highlights and Leadership Roles
After completing her residency and PhD, Michala Henriksen began her academic career in the U.S., holding positions at several leading veterinary institutions.
- 2013 – 2017: Assistant Professor of Comparative Ophthalmology, University of Minnesota
- 2017 – 2023: Assistant Professor (later tenured Associate Professor), Colorado State University College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences (CSU CVMBS)
- 2023 – Present: Tenured Associate Professor of Comparative Ophthalmology, North Carolina State University College of Veterinary Medicine
At Colorado State University, she earned recognition for her dedication to excellence in both teaching and research, receiving the Dr. Maxine Benjamin Award for Veterinary Faculty Excellence in 2022 and a nomination for the Excellence in Teaching Award in 2021.
Her leadership extends beyond the university setting. Michala Henriksen currently serves on the editorial board of the Journal of Veterinary Ophthalmology and holds positions with the Vision for Animals Foundation (VAF), including Assistant Treasurer/Secretary and Event Committee member. She also co-chairs the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists (ACVO) Basic Science Course, which she will host at NCSU both virtually and in person.
Innovative Research in Alternative and Regenerative Medicine
A key focus of Michala Henriksen’s work is exploring novel therapies for ocular diseases, particularly through alternative and regenerative medicine. She has led groundbreaking studies on treatments that have the potential to revolutionize veterinary ophthalmology.
Cannabidiol (CBD): Investigating its anti-inflammatory properties for treating ocular diseases in dogs.
Interleukin-1 Receptor Antagonist Protein (IRAP): Studying its role in reducing ocular inflammation.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF): Developing therapies that use PRF to accelerate corneal healing in dogs and horses.
Michala Henriksen believes PRF has enormous potential to improve outcomes for patients with ulcerative keratitis, a painful and vision-threatening condition. Its high concentration of growth factors and cytokines may provide superior healing compared to traditional treatments, making it an exciting area of ongoing research.
Commitment to Teaching and Mentorship
In addition to her research and clinical work, Michala Henriksen is deeply committed to teaching and mentoring veterinary students, residents, and interns. She believes in simplifying complex concepts to make them accessible while emphasizing their direct impact on patient care.
Her dedication to education ensures that her influence reaches far beyond her own research, as she helps shape the future leaders of veterinary ophthalmology worldwide.
A Passion for Science and the Outdoors
Outside of her professional life, Michala Henriksen enjoys spending time outdoors, especially hiking in the mountains with her French bulldog, Frieda. This love of nature reflects her holistic approach to life and medicine, blending scientific rigor with a deep appreciation for the world around her.
Michala Henriksen: Advancing Vision Care for Animals Worldwide
From Denmark to the United States, Michala Henriksen’s journey reflects a rare combination of global perspective, clinical excellence, and scientific innovation.
Through her research in regenerative medicine, her leadership roles in veterinary organizations, and her passion for teaching, she continues to shape the field of veterinary ophthalmology and improve the lives of countless animals and the people who care for them.
Take your clinical confidence to the next level with the Equine Ophthalmology Program – a comprehensive, case-based learning experience designed by leading equine eye specialists for practicing veterinarians.
Guided by world-renowned educators including Dr. Dennis Brooks (USA), Anne Dwyer, and Crystal Eng,
this program blends advanced theory with practical, real-world insights you can immediately apply in the field.
Across ten in-depth modules, you’ll strengthen your diagnostic reasoning, refine your surgical and medical management of eye disease, and gain the knowledge to handle complex ophthalmic emergencies with confidence.
Join a global community of veterinarians committed to preserving sight and improving outcomes – and reignite your passion for clinical excellence in equine eye care.