touchOPHTHALMOLOGY Future Leaders 2026
Following the successful introduction of touchOPHTHALMOLOGY Future Leaders 2025, we are delighted to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 edition.
This initiative celebrates the next generation of ophthalmology pioneers – those whose passion, dedication and innovative thinking are shaping the future of eye care. By highlighting the rising stars of today, we aim to showcase the individuals who are set to drive progress and transformation in the years ahead.
We invite our global ophthalmology community to put forward colleagues, peers or mentors who demonstrate exceptional promise, leadership and vision. Nominations are open across all subspecialties, reflecting the breadth and diversity of talent that continues to advance the field.
Why nominate a rising star?
Ophthalmologists selected as Future Leaders 2026 will enjoy the following benefits:
- Enhanced professional visibility through our Future Leaders 2026 campaign, promoted to our extensive network of ophthalmologists and industry professionals.
- Official recognition with a Future Leader 2026 certification and LinkedIn badge.
- Exclusive opportunities to contribute to expert-led content, including live events, thought-leadership features and conference coverage on our global platform.
Join us in recognising the future leaders of ophthalmology. Nominations for 2026Â are now closed.
Criteria for nominees
touchOPHTHALMOLOGY Future Leaders 2026 recognises outstanding rising talents in the field of ophthalmology across the globe. To be eligible for nomination, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Age requirement – Candidates must be ≤40 years of age at the time of nomination. An extension of up to 4 years may be applied in recognition of career interruptions, including but not limited to illness, parental leave, or significant caregiving responsibilities.
- Academic contribution – Candidates must have at least one publication as first, corresponding, or last author in a PubMed-indexed or Q1-ranked journal (Clarivate JCR 2024).
- Career stage – Candidates may be at any career level, from trainee to senior lecturer/associate professor. Full professor titles are not eligible.
- Field of work – Candidates must be actively engaged in clinical practice, research or education in their field.
- Professional standing – Candidates should demonstrate evidence of leadership potential, innovation or meaningful contributions to their subspecialty or the wider specialty community. Engagement in international conferences and medical society committees is considered highly desirable.
