2026-2027 Rush University Research Fellowship- 3rd year Medical Students

Are you a highly motivated 3rd-year medical student passionate about Orthopaedic Surgery and eager to strengthen your research credentials before applying for residency? If so, this one-year immersive research opportunity in Adult Reconstruction at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago is designed for you.

Under the mentorship of world-renowned Joint Reconstruction surgeons—Dr. Craig Della Valle and Dr. Denis Nam—you will gain hands-on research experience, work closely with attendings, fellows, and residents, and develop critical skills to excel in your future career. This role is an unparalleled opportunity to enhance your residency application while enjoying all that Chicago has to offer.

Position Title: Clinical Research Assistant (Orthopaedic Surgery – Adult Reconstruction) 

Duration: 1 Year 

Location: Rush University Medical Center, Chicago, IL 

Start Date: June 2026

Salary: competitive to all Fellowships in the U.S. ($35k) *no insurance provided

Why Choose This Research Year?

• High-Impact Research: Expect to contribute to multiple papers, abstracts, and presentations, positioning yourself as a competitive residency applicant.
• Close Mentorship: Work one-on-one with attendings who are dedicated to your success and will actively support your residency match.
• Surgical Exposure: Observe surgeries, master Orthopaedic physical exam techniques, and engage in patient care.
• National Conference Presentations: Gain experience presenting your research at leading Orthopaedic meetings.
• Networking & Career Development: Collaborate with faculty, fellows, and residents at one of the top Orthopaedic programs in the country.Living in Chicago: Enjoy a vibrant city with world-class dining, culture, and entertainment while advancing your career.

Who Should Apply?

We are looking for highly motivated students who: 

• Have successfully completed their 3rd year of medical school by June 2025. 
• Have a strong interest in Orthopaedic Surgery. 
• Have completed USMLE Step 2 before the start date. 
• Are U.S. citizens enrolled in a U.S. medical school. 
• Can commit to living in Chicago for one year.

Skills That Will Set You Apart

• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and self-motivated. 
• Strong communication skills and ability to work independently and in a team. 
• Ability to multitask across multiple studies while interacting with patients in clinical and hospital settings. 
• Eager to take initiative and learn quickly in a fast-paced research environment.

Research Responsibilities

• Coordinate research projects led by the principal investigators.
• Consent and follow up with patients for ongoing studies.
• Manage data entry, IRB submissions, and research documentation.
• Draft, edit, and submit manuscripts and abstracts for publication.
• Prepare presentations and posters for national conferences.
• Engage with attendings, fellows, and residents in research and clinical settings.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should email their application to our research team at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the following:

1. A brief cover letter detailing your background and interest in the position. 
2. CV, including USMLE Step 1 (pass confirmation), Step 2 score (if available), and medical school transcripts. 
3. At least one letter of recommendation from a faculty member at your medical school. 
4. Projected start date (May-June 2026).

Application Deadline: April 1, 2026 

Applicants will be contacted promptly upon receipt of their application.

Join us at Rush and take the next step toward securing your future in Orthopaedic Surgery!