WIO 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.
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.
Thank you to our 2025 Sponsors!
Interested in sponsoring the WIO Clinical Trials Training Program?
There are still opportunities available! Contact the WIO Executive Office for more information.