[Recognition in ophthalmology: the Sicca Advancement Award 1999-2024].

The Sicca Advancement Award has been awarded annually for clinical and basic work in the field of dry eye research. The aim of this study is to analyze the internal structures, networks, and selection processes of Sicca Award winners using qualitative and quantitative methods. The study is based on original documents, calls for applications, meeting minutes (1999-2024), and interviews with jury members. Of a total of 360 applications (1999-2024), more than half (54%) were awarded a prize. There has been a steady increase in the number of female applicants and prize winners. Düsseldorf, Erlangen, and Cologne were identified as particularly successful research locations. Jury members often serve for long periods of time. Since 2014 at the latest, jury members have not participated in the discussion or voting for applicants from their own institution. On average, €2,497.27 prize money is awarded, which is too low to directly promote research. Rather, the Sicca Award is a funding and networking tool. The award has raised awareness in the field of dry eye research and ensured its place in German ophthalmology. Thanks to extensive marketing, the Sicca Advancement Award is more prominent than many other awards in ophthalmology.