Pediatric Orthopaedic Research Programs for Medical Students
Rising Stars in Pediatric Orthopaedic Research Program
The UH Rainbow Babies & Children's Rising Stars in Pediatric Orthopaedic Research Program is a year-long immersive experience designed for exceptional medical students. Student Fellows will have the opportunity to conduct groundbreaking research and develop the expertise to author impactful publications. As integral members of the pediatric orthopaedic surgery team, they gain valuable clinical exposure both in and out of the operating room. This program fosters the next generation of leaders in pediatric orthopaedics.
Details, Eligibility and Application
- Program duration: one year
- Applicants should be completing their third year of medical school
- Applicants must be in good academic standing
- The recipient of this award will receive a $30,000 stipend to cover living expenses for the year, as well as travel expenses for national presentations.
The 2026-2027 application cycle is now closed and will reopen in Fall 2025.
Program Components
The Research Student Fellow will delve into a diverse range of research projects, tackling critical questions and developing solutions in pediatric orthopaedics. These focus areas include:
- Spinal Deformity & Scoliosis
- Neuromuscular Disorders
- Limb Deformity
- Pediatric Orthopaedic Trauma
- Hand and Upper Extremities
- Sports Injuries
Student Fellows will have the opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research, with completed projects targeted for publication in top-tier orthopaedic journals and presentations at national and international conferences.
Mentorship
Our program boasts a faculty of attending physicians, all actively engaged in research, who serve as dedicated mentors. Student Fellows benefit from frequent meetings with the pediatric faculty, ensuring comprehensive supervision and personalized guidance.
Gap Year Program
The Pediatric Orthopedic Surgery Research Gap Year Program is an exciting opportunity for highly motivated students to strengthen their applications for Medical School or Orthopaedic Surgery Residency Match. Students will train under experienced mentors in the Division of Orthopedic Surgery Research, gaining hands-on experience in various focus areas like spine, limb deformity, sports medicine and more.
This immersive program offers a competitive salary and benefits package, along with research opportunities including project design, data collection, and manuscript preparation. Students will also attend weekly
The 2026-2027 application cycle is now closed.
Testimonials
The reason I chose the Rainbow Pediatric Orthopaedics group was because of the incredibly supportive environment, mentorship, and diverse range and volume of research productivity. Throughout my year, I was able to engage in countless projects, gain a better understanding of the entire research process, and stay involved in the residency program. It was a highly educational and great learning experience.
~ Bryan Ren (2021-2022 Fellow)
Some of the research I helped conduct has been presented at AAOS, AAP, MAOA, and more. One paragraph is not nearly enough to capture one of the most transformative experiences of my career. I am extremely grateful for these opportunities, serving the division has been an absolute honor.
~ Matthew Folkman (2021-2022 Fellow)
I was drawn to this position because it offered a chance to significantly develop my research skills and build strong relationships with the department's attendings.
~ Dre Ferrell (2023-2024 Research Fellow)