Job Details

Type: Full-Time, One-Year Fellowship
Posted: November 30, 2025
Category: Medical Research
Location: University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Job ID: 371291
Compensation: $44,000 per year + benefits, conference registration/travel
Start Date: Summer 2026

About the Role

The Spine Division within the Department of Orthopedic Surgery offers a one-year gap-year fellowship for 2026 graduates (undergraduate) 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

Responsibilities

• 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

• Opportunities to produce 10–15 publications, reviews, conference presentations, and book chapters

Qualifications

• 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

Benefits

• 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

Application Instructions

Applicants must submit online:

• 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@umn.edu. The position remains open until filled.

Diversity & Equal Opportunity

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.