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.
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.
Applications open May 2026
Lead beyond the lab and protect the future of vision research
Our program is designed for early-career researchers who have not yet received an R01 and are eager to expand their leadership beyond the laboratory. If you are driven to protect the future of vision research, elevate the impact of your work, and engage policymakers with confidence, we encourage you to apply.
Sign up to be notified when applications open and receive guidelines, eligibility details, and key dates. Take the next step toward becoming a leader who not only advances science but helps ensure it thrives.
Emerging Vision Scientist Inquiry
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
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