2026–2027 Spine Research Fellowship, Midwest Orthopaedics at RUSH | Chicago, IL
We are recruiting highly motivated candidates for the 2026–2027 Spine Research Fellowship under the mentorship of Kern Singh, MD, world-renowned spine surgeon; Vice Chair, Department of Orthopedic Surgery; Professor and Director, Division of Spine Surgery; and Co-Director, Minimally Invasive Spine Institute at RUSH University Medical Center. This intensive, year-long research fellowship is designed for competitive medical students—typically between their
3rd and 4th year—who demonstrate a strong interest in orthopaedic surgery, academic productivity, and clinical excellence.
Position Details
- Title: Research Coordinator (Spine Research Fellow)
- Positions Available: 2
- Duration: 1 year
- Location: Midwest Orthopaedics at RUSH, Chicago, IL
- Start/End Date: May–June 2026
- Compensation: Monthly stipend provided; all conference-related expenses covered
Responsibilities
- Coordinate and manage multiple spine research projects
- Perform statistical analysis using R, Python, SPSS, or similar software
- Prepare and submit Institutional Review Board (IRB) protocols
- Draft and contribute to peer-reviewed manuscripts, book chapters, textbooks, and educational articles
- Manage and mentor a team of research assistants
- Oversee administrative tasks, including correspondence, reimbursements, and clerical support
Candidate Qualifications
- Strong motivation to pursue a career in orthopaedic surgery
- Demonstrated interest in clinical and/or translational research
- Familiarity with statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, Python)
- Excellent time-management skills, strong work ethic, and ability to thrive in a collaborative team environment
- Access to a car is helpful but not required
- U.S. applicants only (visa sponsorship not available)
- Unmatched U.S. MD 4th-year medical students are encouraged to apply
Benefits & Opportunities
- 10+ peer-reviewed publications by the end of the fellowship year, with first-author opportunities based on contribution
- 15+ abstract acceptances at major national and international spine society meetings
- Close collaboration with spine surgery fellows, orthopaedic residents, and attending surgeons
- Opportunities to observe surgical procedures and participate in clinic
- Participation in RUSH Orthopaedic Grand Rounds and Journal Clubs
- Full support to present research at leading orthopaedic and spine conferences
Joining the Singh Research Team offers a unique opportunity to significantly strengthen your orthopaedic residency application. Dr. Singh provides personalized mentorship, guidance throughout the residency application process, and strong letters of recommendation. Previous research coordinators from the lab have demonstrated high match rates into orthopaedic surgery residency programs.
Interested individuals should send a brief Cover Letter ascribing their motivation for joining the team (what experiences/skills would they contribute), CV/resume (with USMLE Step I and/or II scores), and expected starting date to: [email protected] with subject title “2026-2027 Research Fellowship Application [last name, first name]”
(Applications will be considered on a rolling basis)
