The Student Outreach and Research Scholarship (SOAR) is a donor-funded educational initiative of Bascom Palmer's Balkan International Pediatric Glaucoma Center. This highly competitive program provides medical students and early-career ophthalmologists with full-time, in-person, one-year research experience focused on pediatric eye disease.
Program Overview
The SOAR program offers intensive training in research methodology while complementing world-class medical education. Scholars gain comprehensive exposure to:
- Ocular genetics
- International blindness prevention efforts
- Community outreach initiatives
- Research ethics and biostatistics
- Scientific writing and publication
Participants engage in multiple hands-on research projects, following each proposal from conception to completion, under the direct mentorship of Bascom Palmer faculty scholars. Scholars will prepare abstracts, submit research to peer-reviewed conferences, and deliver presentations at national and international ophthalmology specific conferences and meetings. Regular collaborative consultations, specific educational workshops and seminars, strong networking and research life cycle management, complement the academic program activities.
Eligibility
The SOAR program provides opportunities for medical students following completion of their second, third, or fourth year of medical school, as well as early career ophthalmologists to collaborate and foster a passion for vision research. Scholars are selected based on academic achievement. Prior research experience is not required; candidates with limited exposure to research are encouraged to apply. Applicants from across the United States and abroad will be considered. There are no citizenship requirements. Should you require visa sponsorship, please allow up to 6 months for processing.Stipend and Benefits
- $43,888 annual stipend
- Allowance of up to $2,500 to support travel expenses to present research work at national and international conferences
Application Process
Up to four (4) scholarships are awarded annually. Each applicant must provide:
- Curriculum vitae
- Personal statement
- Three letters of recommendation
Expectations
Full-time, in-person research at Bascom Palmer Eye Institute (University of Miami medical campus)
- Design and lead independent research projects
- Attend regular seminars, professional development, and informational sessions
- Present research findings at national and international conferences, under guidance and supervision of the Bascom Palmer faculty
- Publish at least one original research manuscript
Upon completion of the program, scholars will receive a Certificate of Distinction. Click here for more information about SOAR
Contact
Eleonore Savatovsky, MD, PhD
SOAR Scholars Program Director
Email: balkancenter@miami.edu