2026-2027 University of Minnesota Spine Research Gap-Year Fellow

The Spine Division within the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at the University of Minnesota invites 2026 graduates (just completed undergraduate degree) and 3rd and 4th-year US and IMG medical students interested in orthopedic surgery to apply for a one-year spine research gap-year fellowship.

This fellowship focuses on adult degenerative and deformity research. Specific areas of study include BMI/Bariatric & GLP-1/Impact on Surgical Outcomes, CBD and CBT impact on post- surgical pain management, biomechanical applications of spine implant designs on surgical outcomes, safety in adult deformity surgery, applications of artificial intelligence in surgical planning and radiographic measurements in spine surgery, metabolomic/genomic factors on pre-optimization and post-surgical outcomes, and various clinical and radiographic factors associated with surgeries for adult degenerative and deformity conditions.

Position: Spine Research Gap-Year Fellow
Duration: 1 year
Start Date: Summer 2026
Compensation: $44,000 + benefits eligible and conference registration/travel
Location: University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
Spine Surgeon Collaborators: David Polly, MD, Jonathan Sembrano, MD, Christopher Martin, MD, Nathan Hendrickso,n MD

Responsibilities:

• Manage multiple research projects, organize and maintain all aspects of the projects (e.g., Biomechanical, Cadaveric, Systematic Reviews, National Registries, and Clinical/Bench research).
• Work alongside the spine research team to organize and present ongoing research updates at weekly meetings with a team of research faculty, fellows, residents, statisticians, and research coordinators.
• Develop and submit a research prospectus document to the Department CRC and Institutional Review Board (IRB).
• Assist in the preparation of PowerPoint presentations and e-Posters for professional conferences.
• Opportunity to lead studies with other medical students and clinical fellows (University of Minnesota).

Goals/Opportunities of the Fellowship:

• 10-15 publications, in addition to reviews, conference presentations, and book chapters.
• Gain important experience in clinical and basic science orthopedic research to help strengthen a potential academic career.
• Learn and apply basic data analysis under the guidance of a PhD data analyst.
• Build confidence in data collection, scientific writing, and submission of manuscripts.
• Attend and present at national and international meetings.
• Participate in clinic and operating room observation with the spine surgeons and spine fellow.
• Gain support in your orthopedic surgery match.

This position is not eligible for H-1B visa sponsorship.

• Bachelor's Degree Required.
• US-based 2026 graduates (just completed undergraduate degree) or US-based/IMG MS3 or MS4 students with a strong interest in orthopedic research and a planned career in orthopedic surgery and academic medicine.
• Prior research experience preferred but not required.
• Demonstrated interest in research and strong academic record.
• Ability to work independently and complete tasks in an efficient manner.
• Skills include ability to: communicate with team members, self-manage, work independently, and collaborate with clinic staff and multidisciplinary team members.

To learn more about the Department of Orthopedic Surgery, please visit: https://med.umn.edu/ortho

Pay Range: $44,000 annually

Please visit the Benefits for Postdoctoral Candidates website for more information regarding benefit eligibility.

• Competitive wages, paid holidays, and generous time off
• Continuous learning opportunities through professional training
• Medical, dental, and pharmacy plans
• Healthcare and dependent care flexible spending accounts
• University HSA contributions
• Disability and life insurance
• Employee wellbeing program
• Financial counseling services
• Employee Assistance Program with eight sessions of counseling at no cost

Applications must be submitted online. To be considered for this position, please click the Apply button and follow the instructions. You will have the opportunity to complete an online application for the position and attach a cover letter and resume.

Additional documents may be attached after application by accessing your "My Job Applications" page and uploading documents in the "My Cover Letters and Attachments" section. This position requires that you attach:

1. Curriculum vitae
2. A brief cover letter/personal statement detailing your background and interest in the position
3. 3 references
4. STEP 1 & 2 scores (where applicable)
5. Institutional transcripts (unofficial)
6. Provide proof of eligibility for J-1 Visa if IMG applicant (no H1B sponsorships available)

Interested applicants should send the following items to kodland@umn.edu in addition to applying online.

This position will remain open until filled.

To request an accommodation during the application process, please e-mail employ@umn.edu or call (612) 624-8647.

The University recognizes and values the importance of diversity and inclusion in enriching the employment experience of its employees and in supporting the academic mission. The University is committed to attracting and retaining employees with varying identities and backgrounds.

The University of Minnesota provides equal access to and opportunity in its programs, facilities, and employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, gender, age, marital status, disability, public assistance status, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or gender expression. To learn more about diversity at the U: http://diversity.umn.edu

Any offer of employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check. Our presumption is that prospective employees are eligible to work here. Criminal convictions do not automatically disqualify finalists from employment.

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC)

The University of Minnesota, Twin Cities (UMTC), is among the largest public research universities in the country, offering undergraduate, graduate, and professional students a multitude of opportunities for study and research. Located at the heart of one of the nation's most vibrant, diverse metropolitan communities, students on the campuses in Minneapolis and St. Paul benefit from extensive partnerships with world-renowned health centers, international corporations, government agencies, and arts, nonprofit, and public service organizations.

At the University of Minnesota, we are proud to be recognized by the Star Tribune as a Top Workplace for 2021, as well as by Forbes as Best Employers for Women and one of America's Best Employers (2015, 2018, 2019, 2023), Best Employer for Diversity (2019, 2020), Best Employer for New Grads (2018, 2019), and Best Employer by State (2019, 2022).