New Award to Encourage Research into Sustainable Practices

ESCRS is deepening its commitment to sustainable ophthalmology by launching a new award to drive high-quality translational research that can reduce the carbon footprint and enhance the circularity of global cataract, refractive, and corneal practices. 

The Sustainability Research (SURE) Award will fund projects examining meaningful, practical ways to promote environmental responsibility in ophthalmic care. From reducing surgical waste to analysing life-cycle efficiencies in clinical workflows, the award aims to support research that aligns with ESCRS’s commitment to long-term sustainability in ophthalmology.

Award details. Two awards of up to €10,000 each will be presented per research project. Applications can be submitted 28 July through 01 November. The project duration is 12 months.

Award recipients must submit an article to a peer-reviewed journal within 6 months after the research period concludes. The article should be made open access if accepted and submitted to the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery in the first instance. Evidence of this submission should be shown on request to the ESCRS Research Committee in order to release the final instalment of funding.

Evaluation criteria. Applications will be assessed on the following criteria:

• A well-defined research question that addresses a gap in sustainability literature and is appropriate for the proposed methodology
• A strong methodology design (e.g., RCTs, systematic reviews, and life-cycle analyses)
• A realistic scope for a 12-month project
• Clear, justified and feasible use of award funds
• A dissemination plan that includes publication, conference presentation, and novel dissemination (e.g., podcasts/webinars)

Eligibility. The award is open to ophthalmologists and researchers (MD and/or PhD) and experienced ophthalmic nurses who are active ESCRS members. Applicants must hold a current full- or part-time clinical or research position at a clinical or academic institution. Early-career researchers and young ophthalmologists are especially encouraged to apply.

Note that applications from current ESCRS Research Committee members as well as the Society’s executive leaders, trustees, council members, and co-opted council members will not be accepted. This abstention extends to submissions from their respective departments and/or clinics. Please check with the ESCRS Head Office (escrs@escrs.org) if you are unsure of your eligibility.