The Musculoskeletal Education and Research Center (MERC), a division of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery in the Institute for Orthopaedics & Neurosciences at Carilion Clinic and the Virginia Tech Carilion School of Medicine, is seeking a highly motivated MS4 or recent graduate with research experience to join us as the 2023-2024 MERC Musculoskeletal Research Fellow.

The Fellow will work within the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery under the direction of Drs. Jonathan J. Carmouche, M.D., M.B.A. (Professor of Spine Surgery, Vice Chair - Research), Peter J. Apel, M.D., Ph.D. (Associate Professor of Hand and Upper Extremity, Co-Director MERC) and John R. Tuttle, M.D., M.S. (Assistant Professor of Sports Medicine, Co-Director MERC). 

Our team includes support from biostatisticians, clinical research coordinators, and research assistants.  This is a structured educational experience with a strong emphasis on academic productivity and skill development, with the expectation of presentation and publication of original research at local, state, and national conferences, and in top-tier peer-reviewed orthopaedic journals. Fellows will also gain first-hand experience with grant writing and prospective research start-ups.

Previous fellows have successfully published in The Journal of Bone & Joint Surgery and presented their work at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons annual conference. The Fellow would have access and exposure to our entire 45+ Orthopaedic Surgery faculty to ensure a well-rounded academic and clinical experience. 

Previous fellows have successfully matched in Orthopaedic Surgery (100%).

This position is funded and is the top 1% in the United States for compensation and benefits for orthopaedic research fellows. There will be an option for fellows to stay on an extra year at the discretion of the Directors.

Please email Linsen T. Samuel M.D., M.B.A. at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and Peter J. Apel, M.D., Ph.D. at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. with a CV, board scores, two letters of recommendation, and a brief description of your interest in this program.  

Thank you in advance for your interest in the 2023-2024 MERC Musculoskeletal Research Fellowship, and we look forward to hearing from you.