Mercy Vision Institute Scientific Image Contest

What are we looking for?

Striking, beautiful, and informative scientific and clinical images related to the field of ophthalmology and vision science. Images will be evaluated on aesthetics, creativity, and demonstration of innovative science.

What type of images are allowed?

Anything – microscopy, photography, clinical images, movies, time lapses, illustrations, scientific drawings, photos of artistic projects, artistic interpretations of scientific images, or surprise us!

Still images and videos are both encouraged. Images should be related to the fields of ophthalmology, retinal biology, or vision science. Images may be previously published, part of manuscripts in preparation, or unpublished. Images will not be published until the announcement of the winning submissions.

For some inspiration, check Nikon Small World or WISC's Cool Science Image Contest.

AI-generated images are not permitted.

What will you win?

Top prize:	Image printed and showcased throughout the year in the UPMC Mercy Vision Institute Image displayed on screens throughout the UPMC Mercy Vision Institute Image printed on a mug $100 gift card Top bragging rights
Top 12 shortlist:	Image showcased for one month during the year in the UPMC Mercy Vision Institute Image printed on a mug Image printed on stickers Bragging rights
Fan Favorite:	The fan favorite image will be selected by the audience on the Image Contest celebration day and will be awarded a $100 gift card.

Contest details

Who can enter?	Anyone working in the field of Ophthalmology and Vision Science at or in collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh.
Image/video size	Minimum image size: Please submit images that can be printed at 8.5” x 11” or larger. Maximum file size: 100MB
Image/video description	Please include a description of your submission (maximum 1000 characters), accessible to a general audience.
Image/video format	Image: .jpeg, .png, .tiff of the highest quality with regard to file size, bit depth, and resolution Video: .mp4, .mpg, .wmv, .avi, or .mov, not exceeding 60 seconds
How many images can I submit?	We'll accept up to 2 entries per person.
How do I submit my images?	Upload your image and description here. Please name your files as LastName_ImageTitle.xxx (i.e. Smith_MouseRetina.jpg)
Judging	Images will be scored by a panel of judges based on: Artistic and Visual Impact Creativity and Originality Information Content
Announcement of winners	Winners will be announced during the Louis J. Fox Center for Vision Restoration Conference at the UPMC Mercy Vision Institute November 2-4th, 2026, which will include light refreshments and swag with winning images printed on them.
Due date	September 5th, 2026

All images may be used by the Department of Ophthalmology in newsletters, advertising, etc., and may be displayed by the Department.

Contact Joao Ferreira (jof107@pitt.edu) or Bhavya Iyer (bhi4@pitt.edu) with any additional questions.