Spine Research Fellow
Steadman Philippon Research Institute
Vail, Colorado
One-Year Funded Fellowship | Flexible Start Date
Position Overview:
The Steadman Philippon Research Institute (SPRI) invites highly motivated MS2–MS4 medical students to apply for a full-time, one-year Spine Research Fellowship. This competitive fellowship is designed for students pursuing a dedicated research year to strengthen their candidacy for Orthopaedic Surgery residency with a focused interest in spine surgery. The program offers an intensive, high-productivity research experience within a premier orthopaedic research institution, paired with meaningful clinical exposure and close mentorship. Start dates are flexible with accommodation for medical school rotations and examination preparation. You will work directly under the mentorship of two spine surgeons.
Research Focus:
Primary emphasis is on high-impact clinical outcomes research in spine surgery, with opportunities in multicenter and interinstitutional collaborations, biomechanics and implant studies, advanced imaging analysis, and select translational or laboratory-based projects within our institution.
Responsibilities: Fellows lead and manage multiple spine research projects, develop study protocols, submit IRB applications and research grants, perform data and imaging analysis, and prepare manuscripts, abstracts, and podium presentations for national and international meetings. This program heavily emphasis mentorship and will help students not only prepare for residency in traditional ways but will also provide abundant opportunities for leadership experience.
Research Guidance:
The incoming fellow receives structured peer mentorship from the current research fellow to ensure seamless transition, sustained productivity, and guidance on navigating fellowship expectations and residency preparation. The current fellow is able to guide you through any difficulties you may face at any time throughout your research year. Clinical Exposure: Clinic and operating room observation, participation in cadaveric spine laboratories with our spine surgery fellow, and exposure to sports medicine surgical principles and techniques through cadaver labs, alongside attendance at conferences and research meetings.
Productivity Benchmarks:
Expected minimum output anticipated includes: 8–12 peer-reviewed manuscript submissions and 10–15 national or international abstract submissions, with opportunities for first authorship, podium presentations, book chapters, and scholarly reviews.
Duration & Compensation:
This is a one-year, full-time funded fellowship with an additional living stipend to help support the cost of living in Vail, Colorado. SPRI is an internationally recognized leader in orthopaedic surgery, sports medicine, and musculoskeletal research, offering research fellows a rare opportunity to train and publish within a world-class academic environment. You will have abundant opportunities to cultivate relationships and be mentored by leaders in the field.
Application Process:
Applicants should submit the following to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with the title “Applicant 2026-2027 Research Fellowship”
1) CV
2) Cover letter or personal statement which conveys:
a. How your personal goals align with this opportunity
b. Available USMLE Step 2 Scores and Clerkship Grades
c. Prior research experience (not required but is favorable)
3) Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. New applications will NOT be accepted after April 1, 2026.
