Director: Allan E. Kreiger, MD
Fellowship Coordinator: Cary Ewing
The Retina Division offers an International Fellowship in the study of vitreoretinal diseases and surgery. The international fellowship is aimed at developing careers in academic ophthalmology. Areas of study include diabetic retinopathy, age related macular degeneration, hereditary vitreoretinopathies, ocular trauma, intraocular tumors (melanoma), retinopathy of prematurity and retinal detachment. The international fellow is expected to obtain a UCLA J-1 Visa and permission from the California Medical Board to participate in clinical activities through its Section 2111 program. The international fellow must speak English well enough to communicate independently with patients and staff. The international fellow must maintain health and repatriation insurance and have adequate funds to cover all living expenses during their stay in Los Angeles. The Retina Division provides no financial support.
Program Description: The International Fellowship in Vitreoretinal Diseases and Surgery Research emphasizes retina research and patient care related to the research program. The joint interests of the fellowship preceptor and international fellow determine specific subject areas for study. Applicants are expected to demonstrate a commitment to academic ophthalmology with appointment to a medical teaching program upon returning to their country.
Research: The international fellow is expected to undertake basic or clinical research projects during the year. The results of these clinical investigations are presented at local and national scientific meetings, and at the Research and Alumni Day of the Stein Eye Institute. A Microsurgery Laboratory is available for animal surgery experiments. Collaboration with members of the vision science faculty can be arranged for projects of mutual interest. Excellent computer facilities, graphics services, statistical consultation and other services are available.
Clinical Experience: Incidental clinical experience related to the research program is gained by working in the Retina Suite and the Operating Rooms of the Stein Eye Institute. The Section 2111 appointment enables the international fellow to participate in the evaluation and management of patients in the examination suite.
Teaching: The educational experience of the international fellow is augmented by participation in Stein Eye Institute Courses and Grand Rounds. Teaching is an integral part of the international fellowship experience. The international fellow may participate as an instructor in Retina Division courses and the Retina and Vitreous section of the American Academy of Ophthalmology Basic and Clinical Science course at the Stein Eye Institute.
