University Spine Summer Research Internship

University of Minnesota Twin Cities, MN - USA

University of Minnesota Twin Cities, MN USA Posted Dec 03, 2025 Due Dec 01, 2026

Medical Research

Type: Adjunct/Part-Time
Posted: December 1, 2025
Category: Medical Research
Job : 371293
Position: Spine Research Summer Internship
Duration: 3 months (May-August 2026)
Location: University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Compensation: Hourly pay ($15.25/hr) plus conference registration/travel

The Spine Division, Department of Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Minnesota, invites undergraduate students (2026 current undergraduates) interested in medical school and orthopedic research to apply for a summer research internship. Research focuses on adult degenerative and deformity spine conditions, including:

BMI/Bariatric & GLP-1 effects on surgical outcomes

CBD/CBT impact on post-surgical pain management

Biomechanical applications of spine implant designs

Safety in adult deformity surgery

AI in surgical planning and radiographic measurements

Metabolomic/genomic factors influencing surgical outcomes

Clinical and radiographic determinants of spine surgery success

Interns will work directly with spine surgeons including Drs. David Polly, Jonathan Sembrano, Christopher Martin, and Nathan Hendrickson.

Manage and organize research projects (biomechanical, cadaveric, clinical, bench, or systematic reviews)

Collaborate with faculty, fellows, residents, statisticians, and research coordinators

Prepare and submit research prospectus to Department CRC and IRB

Assist with presentations and e-posters for professional conferences

Contribute to publications and conference submissions

Participate in clinic and operating room observations

Learn data analysis under guidance from a PhD data analyst

Current US-based undergraduate between sophomore and junior year

Interest in orthopedic surgery, biomedical engineering, or biostatistics

Prior research experience preferred but not required

Strong academic record and demonstrated interest in research

Ability to work independently and efficiently

Proficiency in English and medical terminology

Strong communication and teamwork skills

Opportunity for 2-3 publications and conference presentations

Hands-on experience in clinical and basic science orthopedic research

Mentorship in scientific writing, data collection, and manuscript submission

Support for medical or graduate school applications

Retirement plan options available for eligible classifications

The University of Minnesota values diversity and inclusion in employment and education. Equal access and opportunity are provided without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. Learn more: UM Diversity

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is a leading public research university offering a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs. The campus is located in a diverse metropolitan area with strong connections to healthcare centers, corporations, government agencies, and nonprofits. UMTC has been recognized by Forbes and Star Tribune for excellence in workplace diversity, innovation, and student opportunities.