Doctoral Scholarships (PRO RETINA Foundation for the Prevention of Blindness)

The PRO RETINA Foundation for the Prevention of Blindness annually awards nationwide doctoral scholarships to specifically support emerging scientists in the field of retinal research. Applicants with a completed university degree who plan an independent research project on retinal degenerations may submit an application by February 15 of each year. The funding covers a period of 24 to 36 months and provides a monthly scholarship rate of 1,500 euros. The funds are exclusively intended to cover living expenses, enabling the doctoral candidates to fully focus on their experimental, clinical, or theory-based studies. Selection is conducted through a call for applications in cooperation with the Scientific and Medical Advisory Board and considers, in addition to the expected relevance for affected individuals, particularly the potential therapeutic relevance of the project.

With the doctoral scholarship, the foundation makes a decisive contribution to promoting young talent in ophthalmology and aims to enable groundbreaking insights into slowing down or preventing vision loss. The call for applications only considers research on retinal degenerations, but not on diabetic retinopathy or inflammatory diseases. Through the scholarship, the supported young scientists gain not only financial security but also access to an expert network and regular scientific exchange formats. The award criteria, application procedures, and the complete funding guidelines document are available in PDF format. The decision is usually announced by the end of June.