VitreoRetinal Surgery Foundation Research Award

Purpose: Support early stage investigators conducting relevant research projects in macular and retinal disease and encourage a career devoted to retinal disease and research.

Geographic Scope: United States (University based institutions)

Focus Areas:

• Macular disease research
• Retinal disease research
• Basic science investigations related to retinal/macular conditions

Eligibility:

• Residents
• Fellows
• Medical students
• Undergraduates
• Must be under supervision of University-based ophthalmologists, retina specialists, or basic science investigators

Award Components:

• Primary Award: $2,000 paid to the recipient's institution for project-related expenses
• Laboratory/Research Expenses: Additional $1,000 available for laboratory expenses, statistical support, computer hardware/software, or purchased services (requires receipts)
• Travel Award: Up to $1,000 for presentation of research results at national meetings (paid directly to awardee)

Funding Guidelines:

• Research must have potential to increase understanding of macular or retinal disease
• Project should be suitable for presentation at national ophthalmology meeting or research symposium
• Should be suitable for eventual publication in peer-reviewed ophthalmic medical journal
• Must conform to accepted standards of conduct (e.g., ARVO Guidelines for Use of Animals in Research)
• Must have received institutional approval (Animal Care Committee, Human IRB, etc.)
• Project completion expected within 12 months of award
• Reporting: Research Progress Report required by October 31, 2026
• Award recipients must acknowledge VRSF using name and logo on all papers, presentations, and abstracts
• Applicants must disclose other sources of research funding

Review Process: Application Review Committee consists of physician members of the VRSF Board of Directors. Board members directly supervising applicants recuse themselves from deliberation.

Contact Information:

• Email: awinkelman@retinamn.com
• Phone: 952-259-4273
• Organization: VitreoRetinal Surgery Foundation (Minnesota, US)

Application Process

1. Download the application form from the Research Awards page
2. Complete all required sections of the application
3. Email completed application to: awinkelman@retinamn.com

Required Materials

• Completed application form
• Project description detailing research aims and methodology
• Timeline for project completion (within 12 months)
• Budget documentation
• Institutional approval documentation (IRB/Animal Care Committee approvals)
• Disclosure of other funding sources for the project
• Supervisor/mentor information and contact details

Progress Reporting

• Required by: October 31, 2026
• Submission: Email Progress Report form to awinkelman@retinamn.com
• Download Progress Report form available on website