The ARVO Foundation Research Catalyst Award funds innovative early-stage vision and ophthalmology research by new and returning investigators, with special support for Retina research.
Funder: Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology
Due Dates: October 1, 2026 (Full application deadline; submissions due by 11:59 PM U.S. Eastern Time)
Funding Amounts: $70,000 per award; project duration up to 2 years; 1–2 awards annually (including one for Retina research)
Summary: Supports early career and returning investigators in vision research with funding for innovative initial projects.
The ARVO Foundation Research Catalyst Award is designed to empower early career investigators and those returning to research after an extended leave in the field of vision and ophthalmology. The award provides funding for innovative initial research projects, aiming to catalyze impactful discoveries and foster new talent in vision science. Established in 2023 and funded by the ARVO Foundation, the award supports projects that could lead to clinical impacts or subsequent research funding, and includes a dedicated annual award for Retina research.