John Henahan Writing Prize

Apply for the John Henahan Writing Prize

Young ophthalmologists are invited to compete for the 2026 John Henahan Writing Prize by submitting an essay (800 words maximum). The author of the winning essay will receive a €500 bursary and a specially commissioned trophy, awarded during the 2026 ESCRS Congress in London, UK. The winning essay will also be published in EuroTimes.

Writing prompt: Essays must answer this prompt:
The digital OR, AI algorithms, and robotics notwithstanding, cataract and refractive surgery involve a human relationship between you and your patient. Please describe how an experience or experiences in your early training reminded you of the importance of the human touch, and how this has inspired you in your clinical practice.

Eligibility: The prize competition is open to ESCRS members (including the free membership available to trainees) age 40 or younger on 1 January 2026. Submit your essay no later than 30 June 2026 to seanh@eurotimes.org.

Cover page: All essays must include a cover page with the following information:

• Author’s name
• Contact information (email and phone)
• Institution/affiliation
• Stage of ophthalmology training
• Date of birth
• ESCRS member number

Writing tips:

Please compose your essay on your own without the use of any AI tools. We suggest you ask a mentor or teacher to review your essay prior to sending it. 

Submit your essay in Microsoft Word or a similar text format (no PDFs, please). The punctuation, syntax, and grammar should reflect the high standard of content published in EuroTimes. Please remember to limit your essay to 800 words. Please include citations for any studies mentioned. 

Deadline: The closing date for entries is 30 June 2026. Send your essay with cover page to seanh@eurotimes.org.

Winning essays: Recent winners have shown some original insight and personal style in their essays.