The Vision Science Research Network (VSRN) offers a wide range of scholarship and grant programs to support established researchers, early career researchers (less than 5 years), clinicians, postdoctoral fellows, as well as students at different levels (undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate science students, medical students, and residents).
For researchers, funding opportunities include:
Common Infrastructure Program
The goal of the Common Infrastructure (CI) program is to offer RRSV researchers resources and work tools accessible to all that they would not otherwise have been able to afford, in order to promote vision research in Quebec. The IFs supported by the RRSV have become essential to the operation of several laboratories in the Network. Their impact is undeniable in terms of scientific publications, conference presentations and grants. The Visual Impairment & Rehabilitation Database has notably helped to influence the policy for distributing low vision care in Quebec. This program is considered one of the most useful and effective.
National and international networking program
Designed to promote collaborations in Quebec and abroad, this program supports researchers in the development of partnerships and scientific exchanges.
Funding for the organization of scientific events
This program supports the organization of events and conferences, thereby stimulating the exchange of knowledge and promoting the sharing of research results.
Pilot Project Program for Early Career Researchers
This program was created to support early career vision researchers and vision rehabilitation professionals. It aims to promote the maintenance of a critical mass of vision science researchers in Quebec, to attract international researchers, and to finance pilot projects demonstrating the feasibility of new projects.
Program for financing a scientific event
This funding aims to provide financial support to members of the Network in the organization of a scientific event (conference, symposium, provincial, national or international scientific congress and scientific café) in the field of vision.
For students and interns, the RRSV offers several financial aid programs:
Recruitment exchange
Intended for graduate students and health professionals, this scholarship aims to spark students’ interest in vision sciences from the start of their training. It is intended for students newly admitted to graduate studies and registered full-time at a Quebec university, allowing them to continue their training in vision health under the supervision of a member of the RRSV. A separate budget envelope is also reserved for students in professional health diplomas wishing to undertake research training.
Vision Network Award
This award recognizes excellence in health research from the perspective of RRSV student members, encouraging research careers in Quebec and stimulating the involvement of students and postdoctoral fellows within the Network. It also aims to gain recognition for the excellence of their work within the scientific community of Quebec and Canada.
Awards for best oral and poster presentations at RRSV annual meetings and summer schools
This award is given to recognize the excellence of presentations at this event, thus highlighting the work of students.
Student mobility grant PRESENTATION in a scientific event
This program provides financial support for the participation of student members in scientific events, whether in the form of oral or poster presentations. The objectives include facilitating student mobility, recognizing their excellence, and developing their research capacity in cutting-edge fields.
Student mobility grant TRAINING internship
This initiative provides financial support to college student members, graduate students and postdoctoral fellows for short-term internships or training. Objectives include networking, acquiring new learning, and recognizing excellence in vision science research.
Program for the financing of a scientific event (when supported by a researcher who is a member of the Network)
This funding aims to provide financial support to members of the Network in the organization of a scientific event (conference, symposium, provincial, national or international scientific congress and scientific café) in the field of vision.