Artificial Cornea Research Fellowship

• Must hold an MD (or equivalent medical degree)
• Preference for candidates with background/training in Ophthalmology or Cornea
• Applicants are often expected to have research interest or prior experience in ophthalmology/corneal studies
• Candidates usually need to have independent funding or sponsorship (since the fellowship is unpaid)
• Preference may be given to applicants who have institutional support and plan to return to their home country/institution
• General fellowship requirement: completion of relevant medical training and eligibility for academic research work

The Artificial Cornea Research Fellowship at University of Illinois College of Medicine is a 1–2 year research-focused program based at the Illinois Eye and Ear Infirmary, designed to provide advanced training in keratoprosthesis (artificial cornea) and corneal diseases. The fellowship emphasizes clinical and laboratory-based research, allowing fellows to work on innovative projects related to artificial cornea development, outcomes, and management. Participants gain exposure to cornea services through clinical observerships while developing skills in research methodology, data analysis, and scientific publication, supported by close mentorship from experienced faculty. The program prepares candidates for academic and research careers in ophthalmology, particularly in cornea and external disease subspecialty.