CooperVision announced submissions have opened for its 2022 Science and Technology Awards programme, which supports contact lens research and development into novel technologies.
This year, submissions need to be focused on new ways to advance global ophthalmic clinical insights, especially around collection of remote data for assessment of contact lens performance; and new technologies for the prediction, prevention, and treatment of myopia, including digital therapeutics and machine learning approaches.
There are two awards: the Seedling Award for early-stage concepts over one year with up to $100,000, and the Translational Research Award with a two-year grant for substantive projects up to $400,000.
Previous winners’ grants total over $2m, including projects on myopia progression and developing the understanding of corneal morphology, as well as contact lens discomfort, contact lens functionality, and retinal response to optical defocus.
CooperVision’s vice president of Research & Development, Francis Erard, said: ‘The needs of today’s eye care professionals and contact lens wearers are ever-changing. As one of the world’s leading manufacturers, we are consistently working to develop products to meet and exceed evolving customer expectations.’
‘Through the Science and Technology Awards program, we have cultivated multiple ideas and approaches that have led to significant product innovations. We’re excited for new partnerships that will once again raise the bar.’
Submit applications before July 15, 2022. Additional information and the online application are available at www.coopervision.com/about-us/science-and-technology-awards.