Emerging Vision Scientist Program
Equipping vision researchers to engage policymakers and drive change.
The Emerging Vision Scientist Program is designed for early-career researchers who are ready to step beyond the laboratory and help shape the future of vision research. This program empowers scientists to understand how federal funding decisions are made and how their voices can directly influence policies that determine whether discoveries move forward or stall.
Application period is closed for 2026
Thank you to everyone who applied. We are grateful for the tremendous interest in this year’s program and look forward to reviewing an outstanding pool of applicants.
The application period for the 2027 Emerging Vision Scientist Program is expected to open in May 2027. We encourage interested early-career vision researchers to check back for updates, eligibility requirements, and application information.
Thank you for your commitment to advancing vision research and advocacy.
Eligibility & Application
Applicants must be early-career researchers (PhD, MD, OD, or junior faculty) who have not yet received an NIH R01 grant. Candidates with training grants or fellowships are eligible; limited space is available for medical students pursuing research careers. Applicants will be selected to ensure diversity across research topics and backgrounds. Notifications will be sent by July 2, with program preparation beginning in August. To apply:
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- Complete the online application
- Submit a CV or biographical statement
- Provide a 3–5 minute video introducing yourself, your research, and your interest in the Emerging Vision Research program.
Where Science Meets Advocacy and Future Leaders Emerge
Through hands-on advocacy training, mentorship, and real-world policy engagement, participants learn how to communicate the value of their research to policymakers, elevate patient impact, and advocate for sustained investment in vision research. The program highlights the roles of the National Eye Institute and the Department of Defense Vision Research Program, helping participants understand how federal support fuels innovation that saves sight and improves lives.
Sponsored by Research to Prevent Blindness, this initiative provides professional development opportunities and showcases early-stage investigators from Departments of Ophthalmology and Schools/Colleges of Optometry.
More than a professional development opportunity, the Emerging Vision Scientist Program is an invitation to lead—connecting scientists who recognize advocacy as an essential part of advancing research, supporting patients, and driving future breakthroughs.
Testimonial
“As researchers, it’s imperative we learn how to educate policymakers about the importance of our vision research and how to advocate for additional funding to propel our research forward. I’m also so thankful that during the Emerging Vision Scientist Program I can exchange ideas and research with dozens of other vision researchers, while formulating relationships that will surely endure throughout my career.”
Seema Banjeree, PhD
Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Wilmer Eye Institute, Johns Hopkins University
Related reading
Explore related stories, resources, and updates on vision research advocacy and policy.
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