ABSTRACT Clinician-scientists in ophthalmology play a critical role in bridging basic and translational sciences to advance and develop effective treatments for blinding diseases. There is a critical need to recruit and retain research- focused clinicians in vision sciences. The overall objective of this program is to continue and enhance a robust clinician-scientist training program in ophthalmology to prepare future leaders in vision science. Stanford University has developed a unique program, the Stanford Ophthalmology Advanced Research Program (SOAR), which provides a blueprint for recruiting and mentoring future clinician-scientists. The proposal responds to the RFA, NOT-EY-23-008, which addresses the critical need for training and retaining research- focused clinicians. The program aims to educate and train the next generation of clinician-scientists in ophthalmology, aligning with the goals of the Stimulating Access to Research in Residency (StARR) program. This vision science initiative aims to provide targeted support to surgical residents engaged in research focused on disorders and diseases related to the visual system. The program leverages the research infrastructure and expertise available within Ophthalmology and across the Stanford communities to enhance the research capabilities of residency training programs traditionally strong in clinical practice but underrepresented in research. Additionally, it offers crucial support to talented graduates of the StARR program, facilitating a seamless transition from resident investigator to independent career scientist. This multifaceted approach will provide a robust mentorship network for vision-related diseases at Stanford. The initiative is committed to a concerted effort to increase diversity by actively recruiting women and underrepresented minorities into vision science research. In this structured program for clinician-investigators, Aim 1) is to establish a comprehensive strategy for the recruitment and retention of resident investigators, drawing from a diverse spectrum of cultural and educational backgrounds, with the specific intention of fostering their development into future academic leaders in the field of vision research; Aim 2) is to provide systematic training and rigorous preparation of resident investigators to equip them with the requisite knowledge, skills, and competencies for achieving autonomy and excellence in their research careers, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of independent research; Aim 3) is to establish a rigorous evaluation process designed to assess the overall efficacy and achievements of the Stanford SOAR Program. This program encompasses diverse metrics and performance indicators, aiming to achieve its overarching goals and its impact on academic ophthalmology and vision diseases research. Successful funding of this program will address the pressing need for an increased number of vision physician-scientists specializing in ophthalmology and for advancements in imaging, biology, and clinical studies aimed at providing transformative care for patients.

NARRATIVE Stanford Ophthalmology Advanced Research Program SOAR Program at Stanford University will be a rigorous mentored program of research training that will recruit and retain outstanding ophthalmology residents with interest and potential to pursue independent research careers and join the future leaders of ophthalmology relevant to the NEI.