# Research Scholars Program ## Work with Top Researchers Gain hands-on experience in the laboratory, working with a mentor on your own research project ![2_03.png](/sites/g/files/omnuum9886/files/styles/hwp_21_9__1920x825/public/eye/files/2_03.png?itok=qm30b-PF) ## expand\_more Launched in the summer of 2021, the Harvard Ophthalmology Research Scholars Program offers first-and second-year medical students an immersive eight-week experience in ophthalmology at Mass Eye and Ear and Schepens Eye Research Institute of Mass Eye and Ear. ## Serving the Needs of Our Community Developed by [https://eye.hms.harvard.edu/josepharboleda](/josepharboleda "Joseph F. Arboleda-Velasquez, MD, PhD") and [James Chodosh MD, MPH](/jameschodosh "James Chodosh, MD, MPH"), and now led by [Ankoor Shah, MD, PhD](https://eye.hms.harvard.edu/ankoorshah); [Silas Wang, MD](https://eye.hms.harvard.edu/silaswang); and [Alexandra R. Bowers, PhD](/alexbowers "Alexandra R. Bowers, PhD"); the Research Scholars program creates opportunities for medical students to build a competitive application for ophthalmology residency. The program is open to all, and we encourage individuals who might not otherwise have access to research mentors, career counseling, or clinical sponsors to apply. This program helps build a stronger talent pipeline by mentoring students interested in ophthalmology earlier in their medical school careers and offering them continued support and guidance as they progress in their careers. This is especially important for students in medical schools without ophthalmology departments and where resources are limited. ## Opportunity Matters *"Dr. Joseph Arboleda and Dr. James Chodosh started the Research Scholars Program to inspire students from all backgrounds to pursue medicine and science. Their vision was for every student to have access to the resources and mentorship fundamental to a successful career, with the ultimate goal of helping our profession better serve all patients. The program’s reputation among medical students around the country is growing, with a significant increase in applications and expansion of the annual class size.”—Dr. Jennifer Lindsey, Vice Chair for Education, Harvard Ophthalmology.”* ## Program Structure - Scholars commit to eight weeks in the summer between M1 and M2 or between M2 and M3. - Scholars are assigned a research mentor, clinical mentor, and resident mentor who have a strong interest in supporting students’ career development and have volunteered for these roles. - Scholars spend 4.5 days/week in the laboratory working in a mentored research program, with the object of learning the components of ophthalmology research, not completing a project. - Scholars spend 0.5 days/week in the clinic or operating room. - Scholars attend weekly mentoring sessions with Drs. Wang and Bowers, as well as guest faculty. - Scholars participate in a hands-on surgical skills session in the Samuel and Nancy Jo Altschuler Ophthalmology Surgical Training Laboratory at Mass Eye and Ear. - Scholars have an opportunity to work on a case report that is publishable in a peer-reviewed journal. - Scholars receive a stipend to support travel, food, and housing. ## What to Expect After the Program - Continued sponsorship with mentors and program leaders. - Assistance and guidance on preparing their ophthalmology residency applications and/or research grant applications. - Letters of support from program mentors and consideration for future positions in our department. ## Eligibility Criteria - The Research Scholars program is open to all MS1 and MS2 students from U.S. medical schools. - Individuals with a strong, demonstrated interest in ophthalmology who lack opportunities and resources to gain research experience in the field are preferred. - Individuals from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. This includes all racial/ethnic groups, sexual orientations, socioeconomic backgrounds, and disability status. - M3s or M4s who have started clinical clerkships are not eligible, but may consider applying instead for the [Exchange Clerkship Program](https://eye.hms.harvard.edu/meded.hms.harvard.edu/exchange-clerkship-program) and/or the [Visiting Clerkship Program](https://eye.hms.harvard.edu/dicp.hms.harvard.edu/dicp-programs/medical-and-graduate/vcp). - We regret that we cannot accept international students (except students from a Canadian medical school who are authorized to work in the U.S.). - Students must be able to commit to a minimum of 8 weeks full-time during the summer. ## Application Requirements - Complete short [online application form](https://forms.office.com/r/LJbZxa21S4) - Personal statement, including a description of 1) your interest in ophthalmology, and 2) how our program would help you overcome barriers to your career goals. Please make sure that your statement addresses these two points. - Curriculum vitae - Two letters of recommendation sent directly to the program administration Application materials, letters of recommendation, and any questions should be sent to [Kahira Saez-Torres](mailto:kahira_saez-torres@meei.harvard.edu) by **February 13, 2026**. ## Hear from Our Alumni ### Dinasha Dahanayake, Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine ***"My favorite part of the program has been the people I've met. It has been a privilege to have met Drs. Chodosh and Arboleda, who have provided mentorship unlike anything I have experienced before. They’ve encouraged me to not be afraid to pursue my passions and to maintain the mindset that I can persevere through any situation no matter how challenging it may seem."*** ![Dinasha Dahanayake](/sites/g/files/omnuum9886/files/styles/hwp_1_1__480x480/public/2025-05/Dinasha%20Dahanayake.png?itok=40v8mk5Q) ### Yamiko Jessica Chanza, Loma Linda University School of Medicine ***"The unforgettable clinical experiences I’ve had through this program and meaningful research I’ve been immersed in have re-affirmed my interest in ophthalmology. This program has shown me how to grow the dreams I have for my career into a reality and has equipped me with invaluable lessons, research techniques, and resources."*** ![Yamiko Jessica Chanza](/sites/g/files/omnuum9886/files/styles/hwp_1_1__480x480/public/2025-05/Yamiko%20Jessica%20Chanza.png?itok=0x1EIsp5)