Emerging Scientist Award
Last year, Dr Sena Gocuk became our inaugural recipient, recognised for her research and leadership in inherited retinal disease. This year, we’re looking for the next outstanding early-career researcher to carry that forward, and Sena will present the Award to whoever it is.
The Emerging Scientist Award recognises and supports early-career researchers who have demonstrated excellence in research, leadership and advocacy in inherited retinal disease.
Why apply
- $1,000 in prize money and a certificate
- Feature on Retina Australia’s website and social media channels
- Present your research at a dedicated Retina Australia webinar, alongside our Hall of Fame recipient
- National recognition as one of Australia’s outstanding early-career IRD researchers
Who can apply
To be eligible, you must:
- be directly involved in research into inherited retinal disease
- exhibit leadership in your field of research
- have experience advocating for your own, or your peers’, research
- have completed less than 5 years post-PhD (or equivalent full-time, accounting for significant career interruption as defined by NHMRC guidelines), as at the closing date
- reside in Australia
Previous winners are not eligible to reapply.
How to apply
Submit an application of no more than 2 pages, your current CV, evidence of your PhD completion date, and a one-page letter of support from a referee, to info@retinaaustralia.com.au.
Applications close 5:00pm, Tuesday 8 September 2026.
Hall of Fame Award
The Hall of Fame Award honours an individual whose outstanding achievements have made a positive impact on the lives of Australians affected by inherited retinal disease, and a significant, sustained contribution to Retina Australia, nationally or internationally.
This Award is selected by the Retina Australia Board.
Both Awards will be announced together
Winners of the 2026 Retina Australia Awards will be announced in October 2026, where we’ll celebrate both this year’s Emerging Scientist and Hall of Fame recipient.