Clinical Trials Training Program

The Women in Ophthalmology Clinical Trials Training Program aims to increase the number of women ophthalmologists engaged in clinical research. Participation in clinical research is more than a scientific endeavor; it is a gateway to the highest levels of professional leadership. Involvement as an investigator opens doors to authoring milestone publications, presenting at global symposia, and serving on influential advisory boards.

In 2019, Dr. Lisa Nijm introduced the WIO Clinical Trials Training Program as part of her AAO Leadership Development project. Her vision was clear: by increasing the diversity of clinical trial investigators, we foster more inclusive study populations, leading to better real-world outcomes and improved care for all patients.

Data-Driven Professional Development

To ensure the program addressed the most critical barriers, Dr. Nijm initiated a Clinical Trials Program Survey within the WIO community. The results highlighted a strong desire among women ophthalmologists to engage in research while identifying specific “nuts-and-bolts” educational gaps, such as:

• Navigating the initiation and recruitment phases of a trial

• Managing budget shortfalls and handling audits

• Transitioning from clinician to successful clinician-scientist

Program Growth and Continued Leadership

The inaugural year of the program was launched in 2021 by Dr. Nijm. Building on this foundation, Dr. Lejla Vajzovic assumed leadership of the program in 2022 and guided its continued growth and maturation over the following several years. Through her leadership, the initiative expanded into a structured, year-long educational program and became a core offering for WIO members interested in clinical research.

Under Dr. Vajzovic’s leadership, the program introduced the first in-person Clinical Trials Training session at the 2022 WIO Summer Symposium and further developed a comprehensive curriculum focused on the practical aspects of clinical trial participation. Since then, the program has expanded to provide mentorship, hands-on guidance, and strategic insights for ophthalmologists seeking to become clinical trial investigators, while fostering meaningful collaboration among academic leaders, emerging investigators, and industry partners.

Through these efforts, the program has evolved into a key educational pillar within Women in Ophthalmology, helping to prepare and empower the next generation of women leaders in clinical research through 2026.

Looking Ahead

Beginning this year, leadership of the program will transition to Dr. Majda Hadziahmetovic, an accomplished clinician-scientist and associate professor of ophthalmology. Dr. Hadziahmetovic brings extensive experience in clinical research, mentorship, and innovation and will continue advancing the program’s mission to cultivate the next generation of women leaders in ophthalmic clinical trials.

Women in Ophthalmology 2026 Clinical Trials Training Program

The 2026 Clinical Trials Training Program will feature a series of educational sessions designed to equip clinicians and research professionals with practical insights into the evolving landscape of clinical research. The program will include two virtual webinars and one in-person session during the WIO Summer Symposium, providing participants with practical guidance on clinical trial trends, investigator-initiated studies, collaborative trials, and career development in clinical research.

Program Overview

June 11, 2026 - 5:00 PM PT/ 7:oo PM CT/ 8:00 PM ET

Webinar: Clinical Research Trends and Insights

Registration is Free for Members and $30 for non-members. Register at:  https://tinyurl.com/2026-wio-ctjune

This webinar will feature a distinguished panel of clinical trial experts discussing key trends, innovations, and challenges shaping the future of clinical research.

Learning Objectives

• Explore anticipated trends in clinical research identified by industry leaders

• Understand disruptions affecting sponsors, CROs, research sites, and patients

• Examine emerging technologies transforming clinical trials

• Discuss evolving relationships among stakeholders in clinical research

August 22, 2026 – WIO Summer Symposium (In-Person Session)
Exploring Clinical Research Careers: Navigating Insights and Pathways

This interactive panel will introduce attendees to diverse career opportunities within clinical research. Experts from academia, industry, and research organizations will share personal experiences and advice for individuals interested in pursuing careers in clinical trials.

Learning Objectives

• Understand the variety of roles within the clinical research ecosystem

• Identify strategies for career development and professional growth

• Explore emerging trends shaping future clinical research roles

• Receive practical advice for entering and succeeding in clinical research

November 12, 2026 - 5:00 PM PT/ 7:oo PM CT/ 8:00 PM ET

Webinar: Excelling in Investigator-Initiated and Collaborative Trials: Strategies and Perspectives

This session will focus on practical strategies for launching and managing successful investigator-initiated trials (IITs) as well as collaborative multi-center research initiatives. Speakers will share real-world insights on navigating regulatory, operational, and financial challenges associated with leading or participating in investigator-driven research.

Learning Objectives

• Understand key considerations when launching investigator-initiated studies

• Explore opportunities and challenges in collaborative and multi-center trials

• Learn best practices for study design, funding, and trial management

• Identify strategies to build successful research collaborations across institutions

Partnering for Change

We are deeply grateful to our industry partners who have committed to supporting this one-of-a-kind initiative. Their partnership allows us to continue advancing opportunities for women in clinical trials research and leadership in ophthalmology.

The companies listed below have committed to this educational program to empower women ophthalmologists in clinical trials research. Please join us in thanking them for their support.