Ophthalmology institutional research capacity strengthening in low- and middle-income countries

Global estimates of visual impairments point to a major challenge globally, with over 1 billion people suffering from blindness or moderate to severe visual impairments. Although the vast majority of affected people live in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), research efforts targeting the specific challenges in these regions remain limited. 

The long-term vision of the program is to contribute to reducing visual impairments and blindness in LMICs by developing and strengthening research capacity, with a focus on research institutions. It aims to reinforce biomedical/clinical ophthalmology research locally in a sustainable manner and to strengthen research ownership. In this way, research institutions in LMICs can build scientific reputation, enabling them to retain and attract excellent researchers. Our vision is that this will foster clinical expertise and, indirectly, improve healthcare provision.

Overall goals

• The projects shall contribute to the development of local biomedical/clinical  ophthalmology research institutions in LMICs through partnerships, scientific network development and research capacity strengthening (see table B. 3) a. for further  details).

• The projects shall contribute to building scientific expertise and reputation of the involved institutions.

• The research enabled by the strengthened institutions should be locally rooted, directly relevant to LMICs, and valuable to the scientific community and other stakeholders, ultimately benefiting patients and populations in LMICs in the medium to long term.

Application Instructions

Please submit as one combined pdf labeled with PI’s Lastname, Firstname:

1. A one‐page letter of intent with a description of proposed aims and approach.
2. If the final application requires a statement of broader impacts, please summarize your plans to address the specific requirements on an additional page.
3. CV (not biosketch) of the PI including past grant funding.

to limitedsubs@uw.edu by 5:00 PM Wednesday, August 19, 2026. Late pre-proposals will not be considered. Proposals are due to the sponsor 10/1/2026 so you will need to have your materials in to the Office of Sponsored Programs by 9/22/2026 if given the go‐ahead by the Limited Submissions review committee.