University of Minnesota Spine Research Gap- Fellow

Type: Full-Time, One-Year Fellowship

Posted: November 30, 2025

Category: Medical Research

Location: University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA

Job : 371291

Compensation: $44,000 per year + benefits, conference registration/travel

Start Date: Summer 2026

The Spine Division Within The Department Of Orthopedic Surgery offers a one-year Gap-year Fellowship for 2026 undergraduate graduates and 3rd/4th-year US and IMG Medical Students interested in Orthopedic Surgery. The Fellowship focuses on adult degenerative and deformity research, including studies in:

• BMI/Bariatric & GLP-1 impact on surgical outcomes
• CBD and CBT impact on post-surgical pain management
• Biomechanical applications of spine implant designs
• Safety in adult deformity surgery
• Artificial intelligence in surgical planning
• Metabolomic/genomic factors affecting surgical outcomes
• Clinical and radiographic factors in spine surgery

• Manage and maintain multiple research projects (biomechanical, cadaveric, systematic reviews, clinical/bench research, national registries)
• Participate in weekly research meetings with faculty, fellows, residents, statisticians, and coordinators
• Develop and submit research prospectus to Department CRC and IRB
• Assist in preparing presentations and e-posters for professional conferences
• Lead studies alongside other medical students and clinical fellows
• Observe clinical practice in the clinic and operating room
• Opportunity to produce 10–15 publications, reviews, conference presentations, and book chapters

• Bachelor’s degree required
• US-based 2026 graduates or US/IMG MS3 or MS4 students
• Strong interest in orthopedic research and academic medicine
• Prior research experience preferred but not required
• Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams

• Health, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Retirement and flexible spending accounts
• Paid holidays and generous time off
• Professional development opportunities
• Employee wellbeing and financial counseling programs

• Curriculum vitae
• Cover letter/personal statement
• Three references
• Institutional transcripts (unofficial)
• STEP 1 & 2 scores (if applicable)
• Proof of J-1 Visa eligibility for IMG applicants

Applications may also be sent to kodland
. The position remains open until filled.

The University of Minnesota is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunity in employment and educational programs, regardless of race, gender, disability, veteran status, or other protected characteristics.