# Engineered Vision Conference (EVC)

> **NIH NIH R13** · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · 2024 · $51,750

## Abstract

ABSTRACT
Through this proposal, we request funding to organize a symposium entitled "Engineered Vision Conference
(EVC).” The main objective is to convene recognized global experts in basic and clinical vision research, cell
and gene therapy, biomedical engineering, industry, as well as junior investigators, to discuss and advance the
area of Engineered Vision (EV). This conference will specifically focus on three areas (1) bioelectronic devices,
(2) cell-based therapies and (3) gene therapies. While these areas are distinct, they share some common
engineering challenges such as in manufacturing as well as defining meaningful clinical endpoints. During the
EVC, we aim to identify the challenges impeding the advancement of each of these three areas and formulate
a strategic action plan to address these obstacles. We will specifically pinpoint areas of overlap that are
relevant to two if not all three areas and try to develop a strategic plan to address these common challenges
and opportunities. For instance, a technology like microelectromechanical systems might be applicable in all
three areas, and the conference will explore how to effectively utilize such commonalities.
Organizing a symposium aimed at advancing these three areas is highly relevant and timely. For example, the
implementation of implantable and/or wearable bioengineered systems in the field of ophthalmology is highly
significant, especially with the current emphasis on precision and personalized medicine, as well as the
transformative power of deep learning artificial intelligence algorithms. Given the interdisciplinary nature of this
conference, we have assembled researchers and clinicians with diverse expertise across these three domains
to contribute to the overarching goal of Engineered Vision. Additionally, we will focus on diversity, equity and
inclusion through a broad outreach plan. We will prioritize the training of junior faculty as well as students
(trainees) through a robust poster and presentation program and an interactive conference format, which
includes travel and best poster awards. Through symposium talks, sessions, and discussions, we will be able
to explore the foundational aspects of EV while also identifying innovative approaches and state-of-the-art
methodologies, accelerating significant breakthroughs and the development of groundbreaking therapeutics.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 11002904
- **Project number:** 1R13EY036745-01
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
- **Principal Investigator:** MARK S HUMAYUN
- **Activity code:** R13 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $51,750
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-07-22 → 2025-07-21

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/11002904

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 11002904, Engineered Vision Conference (EVC) (1R13EY036745-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-25 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/11002904. Licensed CC0.

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