Welcome to the pioneering MGH-IUC ORTHOPHD Research Fellowship Program, a transformative initiative at the forefront of musculoskeletal research and innovation, designed to shape the next generation of global leaders in orthopaedic surgery.

This collaborative effort unites the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at MGH, Harvard Medical School, and Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, reflecting our unwavering commitment to advancing orthopaedic surgery through excellence in research and education. By bridging diverse perspectives and expertise, this program creates a dynamic environment where residents, surgeons, fellows, scientists, and bioengineers collaborate with distinguished faculty and peers to address the evolving challenges of orthopaedic care on a global scale.

At the heart of this program is a shared mission to nurture future leaders equipped with the skills, knowledge, and innovation to transform orthopaedic surgery and improve patient care worldwide. Participants embark on an enriching journey that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries, fostering collaboration, creativity, and professional growth.

We are honored to launch this groundbreaking partnership, blending the clinical and research strengths of MGH and IUC. Together, we aim to redefine the future of orthopaedic surgery through innovation, excellence, and a shared vision for global impact.

Dr. Mitchel B. Harris
Chief, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital
Chair, OrthoPhD Program
Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School

Dr. Nuri Aydin
President, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa
Professor of Orthopaedics and Traumatology
Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine

Dr. Önder Aydingöz
Chief, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
Professor of Orthopaedics and Traumatology
Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa

Dr. Soheil Ashkani-Esfahani
Assistant Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Harvard Medical School
Director, OrthoPhD Program
Director, FARIL, Massachusetts General Hospital

Dr. Bedri Karaismailoglu
Associate Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery, Cerrahpasa Faculty of Medicine
Associate Director, OrthoPhD Program at IUC
Director, CAST, Istanbul University-Cerrahpasa

The MGH-IUC ORTHOPHD Research Fellowship Program is guided by a distinguished team of leaders and mentors from both institutions, ensuring the highest level of academic and professional excellence. This leadership team includes Prof. Mitchel B. Harris, Chair of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery at MGH and Chair of the ORTHOPHD program, and Dr. Soheil Ashkani-Esfahani, ORTHOPHD Program Director at MGH and Director of the Foot and Ankle Research and Innovation Lab (FARIL). From Istanbul University-Cerrahpaşa, the leadership includes Prof. Nuri Aydin, President of IUC, Prof. Önder Aydıngöz, Chair of the Department of Orthopedics and Traumatology, and Dr. Bedri Karaismailoğlu, Director of the Cerrahpaşa Simulation and Research Lab (CAST), FARIL Ambassador in Türkiye, and Associate Director of the ORTHOPHD Program at IUC.

The program is designed to empower motivated individuals with a vision to revolutionize orthopaedic surgery. Researchers will refine their research skills, advance their clinical expertise, and contribute to groundbreaking research initiatives. Under the guidance of exceptional mentors, participants will thrive in an environment that fosters scientific exploration and innovation.

In addition to research, researchers will engage in tailored educational opportunities aligned with their individual aspirations and areas of interest. The program offers a unique platform for growth, collaboration, and innovation, ensuring that each researcher is equipped to lead and transform the field of orthopaedic surgery. The possibilities are limitless, and every researcher’s journey will be uniquely crafted to maximize their impact in the field.

• Training and Mentorship
  Participants in the MGH-IUC ORTHOPHD Research Fellowship Program will engage in a dynamic, structured curriculum that spans one to two years, alternating between MGH in Boston and IUC in Istanbul. This unique structure provides exposure to diverse cultural, clinical, and research perspectives, allowing participants to develop a comprehensive understanding of orthopaedic surgery research and innovation methodologies.
  Guided by dedicated mentorship from esteemed faculty at both institutions, researchers will have the opportunity to refine their skills, explore innovative solutions to complex challenges, and gain invaluable insights into global approaches to orthopaedic surgery. This collaborative environment fosters professional growth and prepares researchers to contribute meaningfully to advancements in the field.
• Research and Innovation
  Participants will have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge clinical and translational research, innovation, device development, and hands-on experiments, leveraging state-of-the-art facilities at both MGH and IUC. By working on innovative projects, researchers will contribute to advancements in orthopaedic surgery, shaping the future of patient care and surgical practices.
• Clinical Observations and Training
  The program provides clinical exposure through observership in clinics and operation rooms, enabling researchers to observe advanced orthopaedic surgical techniques and practices. This immersive experience bridges the gap between research and clinical application, fostering a deeper understanding of real-world challenges and solutions in orthopaedic surgery.
• Professional Development
  Participants will develop essential leadership, communication, and entrepreneurship skills, equipping them to lead multidisciplinary teams and collaborate effectively with industry leaders. The program emphasizes the importance of translating research findings into impactful clinical and commercial innovations.
• Global Networking Opportunities
  The program offers researchers the chance to present their work at national and international conferences, facilitating connections with global experts and peers. These opportunities strengthen their academic presence, foster collaborative partnerships, and enhance their professional growth on an international stage. The MGH-IUC ORTHOPHD Research Fellowship Program is uniquely designed to provide a holistic learning experience that empowers participants to excel in orthopaedic surgery research, innovation, and leadership.

• Application Process
  Prospective applicants are invited to submit their applications through the official program portal. The program seeks candidates with a strong passion for orthopaedic surgery and research, a commitment to excellence, and a vision to contribute to the future of the field. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged. The application process includes:
  • Submission of Required Documents:
    • MD / PhD degree with relevant background
    • Curriculum Vitae (CV)
    • A personal statement detailing research interests, career goals, fields of interest (up to 3), and reasons for applying.
    • Two letters of recommendation from mentors or supervisors.
    • Applicants should have a strong research background with excellent proficiency in English language, statistics, research design and scientific writing.
    • At least two first-authored peer-reviewed original articles published in the field of orthopaedic surgery
    • Applications are open to all countries and nationalities
  • Interview Process:
    Selected applicants will be invited for an interview to discuss their qualifications, research experience, and alignment with the program’s objectives. The interview will be conducted by the faculty from both institutions.
  • Final Selection:
    Candidates’ profiles will be reviewed by the leadership board, including faculty from both institutions and based on the number of available positions and the financial and logistic support status, the final selected candidates will be notified of their acceptance and provided with detailed information regarding program logistics and expectations.
  • Application Periods: Applications are accepted biannually in March and November. Applications must be submitted through the OrthoPhD online application form below.
  • In case you had any questions, feel free to contact us at cast@iuc.edu.tr; mgh-iuc-orthophd@massgeneralbrigham.org
  • Funding: Candidates may be eligible for seed stipends from their home institutions. Stipend discussions with MGH and IUC mentors and administrative staff will depend on institutional policies, visa regulations, and external funding opportunities. Both MGH and IUC encourage candidates to apply for external grants and scholarships in order to support their research endeavors while participating in this program.
  • Further information on Visa regulations: USA: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas.html ; Türkiye: https://www.mfa.gov.tr/general-information-about-turkish-visas.en.mfa

• Being updated