Jeffrey S. Heier, MD, Scholar Award
The Jeffrey S. Heier, MD, Scholar Award, in the amount of $2,500, honors an individual who reflects Dr. Heier’s enduring impact on the field of retina—marked by intellectual curiosity, innovation, academic rigor, and a steadfast commitment to advancing patient care through independent thought and scholarship.
This award recognizes a fellow-in-training (FIT) or Early Career Section (ECS) ASRS member who demonstrates exceptional initiative, work ethic, and a clear vision for future contributions to the field. Particular emphasis is placed on originality, perseverance, and the pursuit of meaningful clinical or scientific advancement. More than a recognition of past achievement, the Heier Scholar Award celebrates trajectory—honoring individuals whose professional journeys reflect resilience, creativity, and a deep commitment to advancing patient care, research, education, and innovation within vitreoretinal medicine.
A central component of the award is the presentation of a novel scholarly work at the ASRS Annual Meeting. The selected scholar will deliver a presentation that reflects:
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Original thinking or investigation
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Clear scientific or clinical relevance
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Work driven by the nominee’s intellectual initiative, academic curiosity, or clinical insight
Selection Criteria
Current FIT and ECS members within the United States who have been selected to present podium talks at the ASRS Annual Meeting will be invited to apply.
Additional academic requirements:
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Must have previously presented at least one scholarly work related to vitreoretinal disease
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A personal statement (maximum 500 words)
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A current CV
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A minimum of two letters of recommendation from ASRS members
Please contact members@asrs.org with any questions.
For more information about Dr. Heier, click here.
To support the Heier Scholar Award, click here.