PROTON-IOIS Muthu-Chitra Talent Development Program
Background:
The International Ocular Inflammation Society (IOIS), in collaboration with the Programme for Ocular Inflammation & Infection Translational Research (PROTON) and the PROTON Research Incubator, proudly introduces the PROTON-IOIS Muthu-Chitra Talent Development Program. This program is designed to support promising medical students, residents, young ophthalmologists and researchers by providing sponsorship to attend key conferences related to uveitis. With guidance from primary mentors Prof Quan Dong Nguyen and Prof Rupesh Agrawal, the program aims to foster professional growth through direct exposure to cutting-edge research and mentorship, enhancing the development of the next generation of leaders in ocular inflammation.
Purpose and Objectives:
The PROTON-IOIS Muthu-Chitra Talent Development Program aims to:
- Provide sponsorship for medical students, residents, early-career ophthalmologists and researchers to attend prestigious uveitis conferences, ensuring they have the opportunity to engage with the latest advancements and global experts in the field.
- Offer sponsorship support for the mentors of the awardees, facilitating a collaborative learning environment and enhancing mentorship experiences.
- Encourage participants to present their work and engage with the broader uveitis community, promoting knowledge exchange and the dissemination of innovative ideas.
The program is open to medical students, residents, research fellows, research assistants, early-career ophthalmologists (<5 years after graduation), worldwide who are passionate about ocular inflammation research. Applicants should be committed to advancing their careers and contributing to the field of uveitis.
Program Structure and Benefits:
- Sponsorship for Applicants and Mentors: The program provides partial to full sponsorship for awardees and their mentors to attend designated uveitis conferences. This includes coverage for conference registration fees, travel, accommodation, and other related expenses, enabling both mentees and mentors to benefit from the conference experience. The sponsorship amount will be capped and will be at the discretion of the committee.
- Mentorship from Leading Experts: Participants will receive mentorship from renowned experts Prof Quan Dong Nguyen and Prof Rupesh Agrawal, along with other experienced mentors. This guidance will help awardees navigate the conference, maximize their learning experience, and build professional networks.
- Presentation and Feedback: Awardees will have the opportunity to present their research at the conference, receiving valuable feedback from leading professionals in the field. This exposure helps refine their work and enhances their visibility in the research community.
- Networking and Professional Development: The program offers exclusive access to networking sessions, workshops, and discussions with global leaders in ocular inflammation, fostering connections that can lead to future research collaborations and career advancements.
- Certification and Recognition: Both participants and their mentors will receive recognition through certificates from IOIS-PROTON, celebrating their involvement and contributions to advancing uveitis research.
Applicants are required to submit:
- A Letter of Intent outlining their reasons for applying, their research focus in uveitis, and how they and their mentor will benefit from the conference experience.
- A Curriculum Vitae (CV) showcasing academic achievements, research contributions, and relevant skills.
- A brief description of the research they will be presenting at the conference.
- A letter of acceptance by the congress
Selections will be made based on the research quality, the potential impact on the field of uveitis, and the applicant’s dedication to the professional development. A panel comprising IOIS and PROTON representatives, including Prof Quan Dong Nguyen and Prof Rupesh Agrawal, will review the applications.
Program Duration:
The sponsorship covers the duration of the selected uveitis conference, typically lasting 3 to 5 days, along with any preparatory and follow-up activities that enhance the learning experience.
Expected Outcomes:
Through this program, participants will:
- Gain direct exposure to the latest research and clinical advancements in uveitis.
- Build meaningful professional relationships with global experts and peers in the field.
- Strengthen their research and presentation skills, contributing to the broader uveitis research community.
Contact Information:
For more information and to apply, please contact the IOIS-PROTON Talent Development Program Coordinator at contact@protonstudy.org
