This year, the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery launched its summer Medical Student Orthopaedic Research Program. The program, established through a grant provided by the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery (AAOS), provides medical students in their first, second, or third year with an eight-week summer research experience that exposes them to the opportunities within the medical science of orthopaedic surgery.
Those selected are paired with a dedicated mentor who provides guidance and training in research techniques and scientific methods. Students are also provided a stipend, an AAOS student membership, and the opportunity to present at the AAOS (or other local orthopaedic groups) annual meeting.
The Department of Orthopaedic Surgery is actively working to broaden the perspectives within the field by reaching out to communities, locally, regionally, and internationally that have historically had fewer opportunities in orthopaedic surgery. Through social media, as well as partnerships with academic organizations and fellow institutions serving a variety of populations, the promotional efforts of the program were aimed at attracting candidates who may not have previously considered orthopaedic surgery as a viable career path.
“We wanted to gain interest from not only medical students in the Birmingham community, but medical students throughout the United States,” said Fred Horton, executive administrator for the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. “Our hope is to offer opportunities in the orthopaedic field to those with different educational backgrounds, interests, and goals. We want this program to be something of interest and available to any and all medical students with an interest in orthopaedics.”
The department is committed to creating an environment where every employee and trainee feels valued and empowered. This program illustrates the department’s continued efforts to pave the way for a future in orthopaedics that benefits from a rich array of perspectives and experiences, ultimately enhancing patient care and advancing the field.
“We are excited that this program gives students the opportunity to learn about our profession and contribute to our research," said Steven Theiss, M.D., professor and chair of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. "We hope this program will spark their passion to pursue orthopaedic surgery as a career.”
Get to know our first cohort of summer Medical Student Orthopaedic Research Program (MSORP) participants:
Julián García Acosta
Where are you from?
Mayagüez, Puerto Rico
Where are you a medical student?
University of Puerto Rico School of Medicine
What interested you in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery’s MSORP?
As a medical student with a keen interest in orthopaedic surgery, I am fascinated by the field’s potential to improve a patient’s quality of life through both surgical and non-surgical interventions. The program offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the specialty, allowing me to gain expert mentorship, explore cutting-edge research, and learn about advancements in orthopaedic care.
What do you hope to learn and/or accomplish during this program?
I aim to deepen my understanding of orthopaedic principles such as fracture healing and joint biomechanics while honing essential research skills such as study design, data analysis, and scientific writing. I hope to make meaningful contributions to orthopaedic research and have the opportunity to share our results by presenting at conferences and publications. Additionally, I look forward to building relationships with students, faculty, and fellow researchers in this amazing field.
Anjali Malhotra
Where are you from
Utica, New York
Where are you a medical student?
SUNY Upstate Medical University in Syracuse, New York
What interested you in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery’s MSORP?
I became interested in the program after learning about all of the research being done here. UAB has many clinical cases and research opportunities in orthopaedics, so I thought it would be a great learning opportunity. The city of Birmingham also has quite a bit to offer so I wanted to further explore this area.
What do you hope to learn and/or accomplish during this program?
I hope to learn more about orthopaedics as a whole and work on more research in the trauma department. I have already learned so much by being here, so I hope to build on this knowledge.
Bradford Minor
Where are you from?
Centre, Alabama
Where are you a medical student?
UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine
What interested you in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery’s MSORP?
I have been passionate about orthopaedic surgery since I began medical school, and the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery’s program provided me with a unique opportunity to delve deeper into this specialty. My interest in orthopaedic surgery stems from a fascination with the musculoskeletal system and a desire to help patients regain mobility and improve their quality of life. The MSORP stands out because it aligns perfectly with my aspiration to become an orthopaedic surgeon by offering a blend of clinical practice and outstanding research opportunities.
One of the most compelling aspects of the program is the opportunity to collaborate with the orthopaedic surgeons at UAB Highlands. This collaboration has given me a firsthand look at the teamwork, innovation, and dedication required in the field of orthopaedic surgery.
Overall, the MSORP has been an invaluable step in my career journey, offering unparalleled opportunities for growth and learning. It has reinforced my dedication to becoming an orthopaedic surgeon and has prepared me to make significant contributions to the field of orthopaedics.
What do you hope to learn and/or accomplish during this program?
I hope to achieve several objectives that align with my passion for orthopaedics during this program. My primary goal is to deepen my understanding of surgical techniques and procedures, which are crucial for providing the highest quality of care to patients. By working with the experienced surgeons at UAB Highlands, I aim to enhance my skills in various orthopaedic practices and improve patient outcomes. This program offers a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and learn directly from leaders in the field. I am particularly excited about the chance to observe and assist in advanced surgical procedures, which will significantly contribute to my practical knowledge.
Moreover, I am eager to contribute to ongoing research projects under the mentorship of distinguished faculty members. Engaging in research will not only allow me to explore new ideas and innovations in orthopaedics but also enable me to develop critical thinking and analytical skills. I look forward to collaborating with my mentor and the research team, building meaningful relationships, and contributing to studies that aim to advance the field of orthopaedics.
In summary, this program is an invaluable opportunity to achieve both my clinical and research objectives. It will provide me with the knowledge, skills, and experiences necessary to excel in the field of orthopaedics and make significant contributions to patient care and medical research.
Ethan Sheppard
Where are you from?
Coral Springs, Florida
Where are you a medical student?
UAB Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine
What interested you in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery’s MSORP?
The integration of clinical and research experience is invaluable to me. Clinical practice not only deepens my understanding of the research topics but also highlights the practical implications of research on patient care.
What do you hope to learn and/or accomplish during this program?
My objective is to make meaningful contributions to the research being conducted within the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Additionally, I aim to deepen my understanding of the essential qualities and skills required to become a good orthopedic surgeon.
Learn more about the department's summer Medical Student Orthopaedic Research Program, here.