For the first time, the ARVO Foundation for Eye Research (AFER) will support AMD and dry eye research projects with two new fellowships for investigators under age 45.

Traditionally, AFER's awards programs have recognized researchers' accomplishments rather than funded their research.

The AFER/Genentech Age-related Macular Degeneration and AFER and Vistakon Dry Eye fellowships are accepting applications until Sept. 15, 2011. Two individuals will receive $40,000 each for work in these specific areas of research.

"AFER is delighted to support the research of our young investigators," said Nicolas G. Bazan, MD, PhD, FARVO and AFER chair. "It is their minds at work and their determination that will make a difference in the future of eye research. Research funding of innovative approaches opens the door to finding cures for eye disease and blindness."

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is the leading cause of blindness in Americans over the age of 60. AMD affects the macula, which is the part of the eye that allows us to see fine detail. It comes in two different forms, wet or dry. Wet AMD is more serious than dry AMD, but both can lead to central vision loss over time, leaving only peripheral vision.

Dry eye syndrome is a chronic issue that over 10 million Americans suffer from. It occurs when the eye does not produce tears properly or when they evaporate too quickly. The most common cause of dry eye syndrome is normal aging; however, lifestyles and climates can contribute to this disease. If left untreated, this disease can lead to pain, ulcers or scars on the cornea.

Both fellowships are open to investigators who are under the age of 45 at the application deadline. Fellowships are for a period of one year and must commence within six months of the award notification.

Applications will be reviewed by a committee of ARVO and AFER representatives who are experts in the areas of AMD and dry eye research. Award recipients will be notified Dec. 1, 2011.

Source: Association for Research in Vision and Ophthalmology (ARVO)