2026 Aravind Eye Care System – Lions Aravind Institute of Community Ophthalmology (LAICO)
Host Organization: Aravind Eye Care System – Lions Aravind Institute of Community Ophthalmology (LAICO)
Website: www.aravind.org
Organization Profile:
The Aravind Eye Care System (AECS) is a large, non-profit eye health provider based in Tamil Nadu, India, founded in 1976. It operates a network of 8 tertiary, 8 secondary, and 119 primary vision centres, complemented by extensive outreach programs. AECS handles millions of outpatient visits annually and performs several hundred thousand surgical or procedural registrations each year (6.02 million outpatient visits and 756,000 surgeries and procedures in 2024). A core principle of the institution is high volume, high quality, and financial sustainability—about half of its patients receive free or highly subsidized care, supported by revenue from paying patients and efficient operation. The system has long experience in clinical service delivery, specialized ophthalmic care, and education/training in ophthalmology. The Aravind Medical Research Foundation (AMRF) is the dedicated research arm of AECS, recognized as a Scientific and Industrial Research Organization (SIRO) by the Government of India. AMRF houses specialized core facilities in proteomics, stem cell biology, genetics, pharmacology, and bioinformatics, supporting translational research in ocular disease. These laboratories conduct molecular, cellular, and computational investigations, collaborating closely with AECS's clinical network to translate findings into patient care. The Auroitech (Digital Solutions) unit serves as AECS's technology backbone, developing and maintaining the EyeNotes EMR, as well as integrating imaging, laboratory, pharmacy, and other health IT modules. EyeNotes supports over 23 million patient consultations and more than 5,000 users; this software foundation provides critical support for data collection, standardization, and workflow optimization. Supporting entities further strengthen this ecosystem. Aurolab, established in 1992, manufactures intraocular lenses, ophthalmic consumables, pharmaceuticals, and surgical equipment, distributing globally at affordable prices. LAICO (Lions Aravind Institute of Community Ophthalmology) functions as the system's management training and consultancy arm, offering capacity-building programs for hospitals in India and internationally.
City: Coimbatore
Internship format: In-person
Internship Department: Translational Research
Department Profile: The Translational Research Laboratory at Aravind Eye Hospital bridges basic science and clinical ophthalmology to uncover the biological and molecular basis of eye diseases and translate them into diagnostic and therapeutic innovations.
Our work spans multiple domains:
- CRISPR-based diagnostics: Development of rapid nucleic-acid detection platforms for infectious eye diseases.
- Genetic and geographic disparities: Analysis of genetic, environmental, and socioeconomic determinants of disease patterns across India through multi-center genomic and epidemiologic studies.
- Molecular mechanisms of cataract
- Investigations into lens and retinal regeneration
Project description: The intern will be involved in understanding the biological and molecular drivers of gender and geographical disparities in eye diseases, with a focus on cataract and diabetic retinopathy. The project aims to investigate how hormonal, metabolic, genetic, and environmental factors influence disease onset, progression, and outcomes across different populations.
Number of Opening(s): 2
Work Hours and Internship Start/End Dates: (Monday to Saturday, June 15 – August 7, 2026): Full time/Six days a week
Work attire: Indian formal attire is recommended. For men, this typically includes formal trousers and shirts. For women, salwar kameez, saree, or other modest professional Indian wear is preferred. Lab coats or scrubs may be required while working in a laboratory or clinical areas.
Local Language: Tamil
Local Language level needed: Not required.
Additional desired intern qualifications: Preferred background in molecular biology, bioinformatics, or public health research; plus, strong analytical and writing skills.
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