ESCRS Young Ophthalmologists
About the ESCRS YOs
ESCRS Young Ophthalmologists (YO) brings together ophthalmologists in the early stages of their careers to learn, connect and develop within cataract and refractive surgery.
Through educational content and opportunities to engage with peers and experienced surgeons, YO supports the next generation of ophthalmologists.

Trainee/Young Ophthalmologist Membership Is Available for FREE.
For residents of any age and doctors under the age of 30, this membership is free for up to five years and provides access to education, resources and opportunities to support professional development in ophthalmology. Trainee applicants must be in training for a minimum of 12-months from the date of application.
Benefits: Annual Congress & Winter Meeting Registration Discount, Access to the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery (JCRS) Online, Full Access to the ESCRS Learning Hub, Opportunities to apply for Research Grants, Fellowships, and Masterclasses.
Have a Question About Trainee/YO Membership?
YO Observerships
Open to trainees and residents in all European countries who wish to visit a European hospital/university to observe clinical practice. Ten €2000 observership grants are available annually.
The YO Observership programme supports European trainee ophthalmologists who wish to observe clinical practice in a hospital or university setting. Awardees must be ESCRS Members. Free 5-Year ESCRS Membership for Trainees is available.

MicroREC Recording Device Initiative
ESCRS has launched the MicroREC Recording Device Initiative to support surgical education and mentorship across Europe. Following the Moving Simulators model, six MicroREC kits will travel between training centres in approximately three countries each year.
MicroREC enables ophthalmologists to record procedures directly from a surgical microscope. Recordings can be uploaded to MicroREC Connect, where surgeons can organise their cases and share them with mentors for review, feedback and discussion.
The initiative brings surgical recording and structured mentorship together, giving participating ophthalmologists a way to revisit their procedures and learn from experienced colleagues.
Catch-Up on YO Content From Previous ESCRS Congresses
Catch up on Young Ophthalmologists (YO) content from previous ESCRS Congresses in the ESCRS Learning Hub.
Whether you missed a session or want to revisit one, you can explore past Congress content in one place.
