NFER is a U.S.-based nonprofit founded in 1949, dedicated to supporting and promoting lens and cataract research, with the ultimate goal of developing non-surgical treatments for cataracts

• Sponsorship of national and international research meetings
• Support of fellowships and travel grants for early-career researchers
• Serving as a source for cataract-related scientific information
• Recognizing outstanding achievements in cataract research

The International Conference on the Lens is a biennial gathering of global lens researchers, sponsored by NFER, aimed at sharing breakthroughs and fostering collaboration. The meeting is usually scheduled during the first or second week of  December at the Outrigger Kona Resort & Spa in Hawaii

Abstract submission usually opens in August. Abstracts must be ≤300 words, with Times New Roman 12point font. Only one presentation per first/presenting author is allowed; co-authorship is permitted. Choose poster or talk presentation preference

NFER offers travel awards primarily to early-career investigators to attend the ICL meeting. Senior researchers can receive specific senior awards (e.g., the Henry Fukui Award). Up to 20 awards are typically awarded. Applications open in August

All Nominations open in July

• Early Career Cataract Research Award(new in 2025): $2,500 and plaque for early-career researchers (within 10 years post-training) awarded at ICL.
• Cataract Research Award: for mid-career or senior researchers, includes $5,000 and plaque.
• Kinoshita Lectureship: Prestigious award established in 1989 honoring Dr. Jin H. Kinoshita, includes $20,000 honorarium and a plenary lecture at ICL.