Heather McGowan, M.D., PhD

Hello! My name is Heather McGowan, and I am a Comprehensive Ophthalmologist at Monmouth Eye Care. I was born and raised in New Jersey, where I live with my husband and two kids. We are life-long lovers of the Jersey Shore, and I’m thrilled to be able to practice and care for patients in one of my favorite locations!

Interest in Research and Clinical Science

I completed my undergraduate studies at The College of New Jersey, where I obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology in 2008. I had an early interest in Neuroscience, so I pursued my Psychology major with a concentration in Biopsychology, as well as a minor in Biology. It was during this time that I developed an interest in research and clinical science.

To pursue these interests, I completed a combined MD-PhD program at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. After finishing my first two years of medical school, I transitioned to graduate school, where I worked on a thesis project that led to a PhD in Neuroscience in 2017. After my thesis was complete, I returned to complete my last two years of medical school to earn my MD in 2019.

Falling in Love with Ophthalmology

I fell in love with Ophthalmology after being randomly assigned to an elective during my clinical rotations in medical school. I did my internship in Internal Medicine at Staten Island University Hospital, and my Ophthalmology residency at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City.

Returning Home to New Jersey

After 4 years of training in New York, I’m excited to be returning home to New Jersey at Monmouth Eye Care. The talented physicians and supportive staff make it a wonderful place to care for patients. I look forward to meeting you and providing excellent care for your eyes!

I look forward to meeting you!

Heather McGowan, M.D., PhD
Ophthalmologist & Neuroscientist
Monmouth Eye Care
Tinton Falls, New Jersey