Principal Investigator: Raymond Walls, MD FAAOS FRCS (Tr&Orth)We are inviting medical students or recent IMG graduates with a strong interest in orthopedic surgery to apply for a volunteer (unpaid) Clinical Research Fellowship in Foot & Ankle Surgery.This position offers a unique opportunity to work closely with Dr. Raymond Walls and contribute to high-impact, funded research projects, while gaining exposure to a high-volume academic orthopedic practice.
Fellowship FocusThe selected fellow will play a lead role in:
- Completing an AOFAS-funded (American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society) study
- Establishing and managing:
- Total ankle arthroplasty registry
- Cartilage repair registry
- Driving multiple clinical research projects in:
- Total ankle arthroplasty
- Orthopedic trauma
- Minimally invasive (MIS) hallux valgus surgery
This is a high-responsibility role, ideal for candidates seeking ownership of projects and meaningful academic output.
Key Responsibilities & Opportunities
- Lead study coordination and project completion
- Develop research questions and conduct systematic literature reviews
- Assist with IRB submissions and regulatory processes
- Collect, manage, and analyze clinical datasets
- Prepare abstracts and manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication
- Present research at national and international conferences
- Collaborate with orthopedic faculty and multidisciplinary teams
- Gain exposure to clinic, operating room, and surgical decision-making
Why This Fellowship?
- Opportunity to take ownership of funded and registry-based research
- Strong emphasis on publication productivity and academic development
- Direct mentorship in a high-yield orthopedic subspecialty
- Ideal preparation for:
- Orthopedic surgery residency (U.S. match or reapplication)
- Research-oriented careers in orthopedics
Fellows in similar roles have historically achieved high research output, with multiple peer-reviewed publications during their tenure.
Ideal Candidate
- Medical student, unmatched candidate, or recent IMG graduates
- Strong interest in orthopedic surgery (especially foot & ankle)
- Prior research experience preferred but not required
- Highly motivated, organized, and able to work independently
- Long-term commitment for 1 year, with ability to extend
THIS POSITION HAS BEEN FILLED