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Student Research Opportunities

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The University of Utah Department of Orthopaedics Research Program accepts highly motivated students and trainees at all levels who are interested in gaining clinical and research experience within musculoskeletal biology, bioengineering and clinical research and are pursuing a basic science, medical degree or health related graduate degree.

We have multiple ongoing clinical trials and research projects at any given time. The goal of our research studies is to increase the scientific knowledge of the field, and ultimately to improve the quality of life in our patient population.

There are several opportunities for students, both paid and volunteer and over the summer or on a part-time basis during the school year. Students will assist with a variety of tasks including chart reviews, data cleaning, analysis and presentation, and literature review. In addition, interested students can also help with ongoing clinical trials.

Orthopaedic sub-specialties research opportunities:

  • Adult Reconstruction
  • Foot & Ankle
  • Hand
  • Pediatric Spine
  • Pediatrics
  • Sports – Shoulder/Elbow
  • Sports Non-Operative
  • Spine
  • Trauma
  • Health Outcomes
  • Bio-Engineering/Bio-Mechanics
  • Musculoskeletal and Tumor Biology
  • Genetics of Musculoskeletal Disease

Testimonials:

"Working with the Department of Orthopaedics was a great opportunity for me to gain experience. After I attended a research meeting we picked a project for me and I worked together with the surgeons and other staff to complete it. I had a lot of fun and learned useful things along the way." -Carlijn Schoutens, Volunteer

"My summer at UU Orthopaedics was very rewarding! I was able to expand my research skill sets and further refine my abilities in study design and conducting meta-analyses. I was very thankful for the opportunity to expand more unique expertise in biomechanic lab techniques and machining. Lastly, I was very pleased with the amount of faculty accessibility and PI engagement in my projects and my learning, I really felt that they were taking the time to invest in my education. All in all, I am very grateful to have had the chance to work with all of the staff and students at the Universiy of Utah Department of Orthopaedics and look forward to any collaborations in the future!" -Nate Davidson, Class of 2020, Carver College of Medicine

"Dr. Brodke and the entire spine team have been my mentors and advocates now for two and a half years. Doing research with this group has been an excellent experience and opportunity for me. They have helped me develop my own research project, receive NIH funding, prepare a first-authored paper, and present my research at several conferences. I am so grateful for how generous, willing, and responsive they have been in helping me succeed and pursue my goals." -Mat Squires, Class of 2019 University of Utah School of Medicine

Ortho Summer Research Internship Opportunity

  • Location: University of Utah Orthopaedic Center/Shriner's Hospital
  • Hours: 40 hours per week
  • Duration: 8-10 consecutive weeks (May-Sept)
  • Application Process Opens: August 1
  • Application Process Closes: February 1
  • Selection Process Completed: March 1

APPLY NOW

Please submit questions to melissa.spendlove@hsc.utah.edu.