First-Time Attendees
If you are new to the ARVO Annual Meeting, there are a number of resources available to help you navigate the week.
Helpful tips
Review this ARVO-AAO joint webinar to get invaluable insights and practical advice on maximizing your annual meeting journey:
Here are some useful tips from ARVO member Tasneem Khatib, BM, BCh, on how to navigate the Annual Meeting as a first-time attendee:
Seattle is the host city for our Annual Meeting this year. If this is your first time visiting the Emerald City (or even if you are a seasoned veteran) take a look at these great insider tips from local ARVO members on must-see attractions, exploring the city on a budget, best places to eat, and the vibrant art and culture scene. Read now in ARVOBlog.
Trainee/First-Time Attendees Info Table
Sunday, May 5 - Tuesday, May 7
8am - 3pm PT daily
Atrium Lobby (Level 4)
Seattle Convention Center - Arch Building
Stop by to get questions answered, grab Meeting materials and get advice on how to make the most of the Meeting.
Seeking career advice or job openings? Take advantage of the following opportunities offered during the Annual Meeting:
WEAVR Drop-In Mentoring Program
Sunday, May 5 - Wednesday, May 8
Noon - 3pm PT daily
Poster Hall (Level 4 - meet by ARVO Central)
Seattle Convention Center - Arch Building
Take advantage of drop-in mentoring offered by WEAVR during ARVO 2024. Mid- and senior-level female ARVO members will be available to meet with individuals who may be looking for professional guidance from a female perspective.
PI/Postdoc Job Meet-up
Monday, May 6
3 - 5pm
Seattle Convention Center - Arch Building (MIT Lounge, Level 4 - Room 400)
Are you a postdoc currently searching for a job opportunity? Then be sure to stop by this informal networking event to meet-up and mingle with PIs from over 35 institutions to chat about job openings in their labs. Remember to bring your résumé and a great attitude. No ticket purchase required.
Breakfast with the Experts
Tuesday, May 7
7 - 8:30am PT
Seattle Convention Center - Arch Building
Registration — $15
Breakfast with an Expert is your chance to meet with subject experts for in-depth conversations in a small group setting. Experts will host a table, give guidance and answer questions on a specific theme. Browse the table topics (TBA) and choose the one you are most interested in.
Sign up from Feb. 5 when you register for the Annual Meeting.
Résumé Review
Tuesday, May 72 - 4pm PT
MIT Lounge (Level 4)
Seattle Convention Center - Arch Building
Sign up for a one-on-one session with an experienced ARVO member to review your CV/résumé. Bring a printed copy of your résumé.
To reserve a session, stop by the First-Timers table in the Atrium Lobby (Level 4) from Sunday, May 5, to sign up. Any unclaimed spots or no-shows* will be made available on a first-come, first-served basis.
*As review sessions are only 20 minutes, late arrivals will be treated as no-shows if someone is waiting to claim an available timeslot.
SCTF Information Table
Tuesday, May 73 - 4:30pm PT
MIT Lounge (Level 4)
Seattle Convention Center - Arch Building
Ready to level up your science communication and advocacy skills? Swing by the Science Communication Training Fellowship (SCTF) information table and chat with an alum. Discover how this program and the SCTF community can improve your ability to share your research with diverse audiences.
Social and networking events
ARVO hosts various events throughout the week where you can network and enjoy downtime with your fellow colleagues. You can purchase tickets online when you register for the Annual Meeting or can add tickets to your current registration.
All times are PT
- May 4, 7:30 - 10:30pm ― ARVO Foundation Gala
- May 5, 7:30 - 10:30pm ― Sunday Social (non-refundable ticket)
- May 6, 6:30 - 8pm ― Student/Trainee Social (No ticket purchase required)
- May 7, 11:30am - 1pm ― Women in Eye and Vision Research WEAVR) Luncheon
- May 8, 5:30 - 7pm ― Members-in-Training (MIT) Poster Award Competition (No ticket purchase required)
- May 8, 9pm - midnight ― ARVO Karaoke Night (non-refundable ticket)
- May 9, 4 - 5pm ― 2025 Seattle Kickoff (No ticket purchase required)