Dear colleagues and friends,
It is our pleasure to welcome you to the XXVIth biennial meeting of the International Society of Eye Research (ISER) to be held in Buenos Aires, Argentina—the city that never sleeps—from October 20–24, 2024.
We are greatly honored to act as this year’s Local Organizers and Scientific Program Chairs for ISER, which provides an international platform for eye and vision researchers to discuss and exchange ideas on contemporary topics. ISER supports this mission by holding scientific meetings at venues throughout the world, through its journal—Experimental Eye Research—and by focusing resources on the development and support of early career researchers, especially those working in the research programs of ISER members.
As always, the science promises to be exceptional in 2024. Expect specific and interdisciplinary themed sessions, open forums, panel discussions, and much more from world-renowned leaders in their respective fields. The meeting also presents a good opportunity for scientists from Latin America—where there is much interest in eye research—to participate. The biennial meeting also provides a wonderful opportunity for younger scientists to present their work, make important connections, receive travel awards, and find their place in the eye and vision research community.
Argentina has a strong scientific tradition with three Nobel Laureates in science, two of whom essentially conducted all of their discoveries in Argentina with local resources and talent, Bernardo Houssay (Nobel Prize of Medicine or Physiology, 1947) and Luis Federico Leloir (Nobel Prize of Chemistry, 1970). Both established a tradition of biomedical research excellence in Argentina. Interesting that both were MDs dedicated full-time to fundamental research. The third one was Cesar Milstein (Nobel Prize of Medicine or Physiology, 1984), who conducted most of the discoveries in the UK. Argentina’s cultural and intellectual life has been rich and influential, including attaining two Nobel Peace prizes—Carlos Saavedra Lamas (1936) and Adolfo Pérez Esquivel (1980).
This unique destination, better known as the “Paris of South America,” is recognized for its vibrant nightlife and cultural activities, such as live music, tango, opera, culinary creativity, fashion, historic tours, and architecture. Buenos Aires is not only Argentina’s largest city but also one of the most diverse cities in all of Latin America. The birthplace of tango has a colorful, romantic, and electric dance scene in several inimitable places, such as the Esquina Carlos Gardel Tango show.
For those who decide to attend ISER and journey to this part of the world, there are more opportunities to visit other equally attractive parts of the country, including the northern, southern, and western regions. Nature lovers who reject the hustle and bustle of the city will love everything the White and Sky-Blue has to offer. The Iguazu Falls in Argentina comprise a chain of gigantic waterfalls set among a teeming rainforest, and there are over 300 glaciers on the southwestern side of the country. Then there is the picturesque Argentine Lake District in the northwestern wedge of Argentine Patagonia. Among many other opportunities is visiting Península Valdés to see southern right whales, seals, penguins, and birdlife. The creaking ice of the Perito Moreno Glacier is a highlight.
So, whether you prefer high-end restaurants and entertainment or exploring the rainforest via a quiet, scenic hike, there truly is something for everyone here. Argentina is sometimes oversimplified as ‘European’ South America. Buenos Aires has a Parisian flair, visible in its airy boulevards and café culture. Yet wander into a local milonga (tango hall) in one of the lesser-visited districts, and you’ll know you couldn’t possibly be anywhere else. You’ll see couples of all ages participate in this haunting dance. Meanwhile, on stretches of windswept pampas, gauchos rally their livestock in much the same way as they have since the 19th century. This country’s traditions are its lifeblood.
Our South America enthusiasts will suggest Argentina attractions that match your interests, helping you make the most of your trip. They can tell you where to find the best Mendoza vintages, what to do in Argentina’s Patagonia, such as hiking in El Chaltén, visit the norhten regions ( Salta, Jujuy,Tucuman) or how to view the Iguazú Falls.
We welcome you to the XXVIth ISER Meeting in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Sincerely,
