We are pleased to announce the Dean’s Summer Research Scholarships for 2009.  This program funds eight optometry students to pursue a research project for eight weeks in the laboratory of a vision scientist during the summer.  Each Dean’s Research Scholar will work in the laboratory of a faculty mentor who is a vision scientist in the School of Optometry.

Eight students will be selected based upon academic excellence, and interest in research.  The program begins on May 11th and will end on July 5th.  Dean’s Scholars are expected to participate for the equivalent of 40 hours/week.

The goal is to work on a research project in a way that will lead to a published paper and a presentation at a scientific meeting.  Dean’s Research Scholars have the opportunity to present their research at meetings of the American Academy of Optometry and the Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO).  They receive financial support of $3462 for the eight weeks of participation in the program. An additional benefit is that the research project can be used towards the course requirement for V774 - Introduction to Epidemiology and Ophthalmic Research that is offered in the third year of the OD curriculum providing it is written up in a form that meets the criteria outlined by the course instructors.

Wednesday, January 21st, 2009 is Research Day.  On this occasion first year students interested in the research laboratories in the School of Optometry are able to tour the facilities.  If you are interested in applying to the program this is a good time to be thinking about a potential mentor.

Applications to the program should state why you are interested in this research award, and whether you have any prior research experience.  You should select a faculty member in whose lab you would like to work, and also the names of two backup mentors, in case your first choice is not available.  The application should be submitted to Dr. Viswanathan by February 18th, 2009.  A committee will review applications, and make a decision by March 23rd 2009.

If you have questions you can contact me by e-mail.  I look forward to hearing from you.