As two key components of its 360° expansion, the Department of Ophthalmology continues to broaden ophthalmic education and investigative opportunities through dual research-focused initiatives: the Innovative Program in Ophthalmology with Exceptional Research (iPOWER) and the K12 Clinician Vision Scientist Program.
Unique in its curricular structure, iPOWER allows residents to dedicate a full year solely to research with a faculty mentor before embarking on four years of clinical training at Scheie. After the foundational research year, the Department funds part of a research assistant's salary throughout PGY1-4; thus, the resident can continue research projects by supervising the assistant, while also experiencing dedicated mentorship by a principal investigator.
iPOWER’s unprecedented path catalyzes the careers of future clinician-scientists, setting Scheie apart as one of only three institutions nationwide to offer a program of its kind to prospective residents. Embodying its fitting mantra "Little Eye, Big Power," iPOWER reflects Scheie's commitment to fostering substantial research prowess within ophthalmology. This program is a strategic part of Scheie's priority in developing all facets of the next cohort of leading clinician-scientists.
by Maressa Park