Global Impact Lab

Global Impact Fellows participating with Unite For Sight abroad have the option to also design and pursue a global health research study. Participating in the Global Impact Lab on a research study is optional. Unite For Sight mentors its Global Impact Fellows to design and implement research studies that contribute to knowledge about global health needs and solutions. Those pursuing a research study receive a Certificate in Global Health Research.

Steps For Prospective Global Impact Fellows Interested in Research

Global Impact Fellows may optionally design and develop a research study as part of the Global Impact Lab. In collaboration with Unite For Sight and the partner eye clinic, Global Impact Fellows work with a university mentor to design a research study relating to global health and/or eye care. Global Impact Fellows are required to receive Institutional Review Board (IRB) approval from their university prior to implementing their study.

  1. Apply to become a Unite For Sight Global Impact Fellow. Before beginning to work on a research study, it is necessary to first apply and be accepted to the Unite For Sight program.
  2. If accepted to the program, you would next contact Unite For Sight's Global Impact Lab Coordinator (TBryant@uniteforsight.org) to let us know that you are interested in pursuing a research study.
  3. Review topics and ideas for research studies: http://www.uniteforsight.org/volunteer-abroad/entrepreneurial-volunteering/module6 The ideas listed on this website are only suggestions, and we also encourage Global Impact Fellows to propose their own ideas for global health research.
  4. Discuss your research ideas and goals with Unite For Sight's Global Impact Lab Coordinator.
  5. Find a faculty mentor (professor or physician ideally affiliated with your university).
  6. Complete Unite For Sight's International Research Online Course and Research Methodology Online Course. Both courses prepare researchers for the critical ethical and methodological issues involved with research in the developing world.
  7. Design the research study with your faculty mentor.
  8. Submit the research design to Unite For Sight for guidance, review, and approval.
  9. Submit your application and research design to your university's Institutional Review Board (IRB) for approval.
  10. After receiving approval from Unite For Sight, from Unite For Sight's partner eye clinic, and from your university's IRB, you would proceed to implement the research study while participating abroad with Unite For Sight.

Global Impact Lab