R38 Program
The UCSF Program in Resident Opportunities for Mentored Ophthalmic Training in Experimentation (PROMOTE) offers a transformative opportunity for ophthalmology and optometry residents to develop as clinician-scientists. By combining world-class mentorship, cutting-edge research training, and tailored career development, PROMOTE equips participants with the clinical expertise and scientific skills to drive advancements in vision research and care.
PROMOTE aims to attract diverse and talented residents to the clinician-scientist pathway. Participants engage in high-quality mentored research projects, receive formal training in methodology and leadership, and build impactful, longitudinal mentorship relationships. The program also prepares residents to successfully compete for prestigious early-career development awards such as K grants.
Residents choose one of four specialized research tracks:
· Track 1. Epidemiology, RCTs, and Global Health: Focus on large-scale clinical trials and public health initiatives.
· Track 2. Basic and Translational Vision Sciences: Investigate molecular, genetic, and regenerative aspects of vision, as well as translational applications of basic science findings.
· Track 3. Innovation and Bioengineering: Develop groundbreaking technologies to address unmet clinical needs.
· Track 4. Data science, digital health, AI: Leverage data science, AI, mHealth, deep learning, and statistical modeling to tackle vision health studies.
Participants dedicate 1-2 years to mentored research (80% research, 20% clinical), complemented by individualized didactics, training in responsible research conduct, and career development workshops. Clinical activities are integrated to maintain and enhance clinical skills.
· Access to NIH/NEI-funded preceptors with exceptional mentorship records.
· Collaboration with UCSF’s renowned Department of Ophthalmology and the Francis I. Proctor Foundation.
· Connections with diverse interdisciplinary experts across UCSF and the Bay Area biotech community.
· Proven pathways to academic success, including publications, presentations, and grant awards.