Welcome to the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) – Holland Combined Research Program (MHCORP)-a unique journey at the forefront of orthopaedic research and innovation.

This collaborative educational initiative between the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at MGH and over 20 leading academic institutions across the Netherlands illustrates our shared commitment to excellence in orthopaedic research. By uniting motivated trainees with diverse perspectives, this program cultivates a dynamic learning environment where aspiring PhD candidates and students engage with world-renowned researchers, scientists, and engaged orthopaedic surgeons.

At the heart of our endeavor lies the vision to nurture future leaders in orthopaedic surgery, equipping them with the expertise and ingenuity to drive transformative advancements. Through collaborative endeavors, research opportunities, and mentorship from leaders in the field, participants will embark on a transformative educational journey that transcends borders.

I am honored to embrace the fusion of expertise from MGH Orthopaedic Surgery and the Netherlands, fostering research and innovation, pushing boundaries, and shaping the landscape of orthopaedic surgery. Together, we embark on a journey of discovery and learning, laying the groundwork for the future academic leaders in our field.

Dr. Mitchel Harris
Chief, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery
Professor of Orthopaedic Surgery,
Orthopaedic Trauma Surgeon
Massachusetts General Hospital
Harvard Medical School

The history of the MHCORP is filled with remarkable milestones and the tireless efforts of visionary individuals. As we delve into our past, we celebrate the contributions of those who have shaped the program into what it is today. This collaborative initiative was primarily established in 2003 with the goal of fostering an environment of excellence, enabling the program to attract some of the brightest minds in the field of orthopedics surgery. Among the notable individuals who played a pivotal role in the early days of this program, Prof. Dr. Job Doornberg and Prof. Dr. David Ring can be noted who became the first individuals to pursue their Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degrees within this collaborative environment (Read more). Ever since its establishment, this research program has continued to grow and expand. We are proud to have trained numerous exceptional orthopedic surgeons and researchers, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions to the field.

As we reflect on our history, we remain deeply grateful to all those who have contributed to the success of the MHCORP. Their dedication, passion, and commitment to advancing orthopedic knowledge have left an indelible mark on our program’s legacy. In 2023, a group of MHCORP alumni, surgeons, and scientists from MGH and the Netherlands decided to expand MHCORP, enabling candidates, students, and researchers from around the Netherlands and even other countries to have access and to benefit from the opportunities provided. Spearheaded by Prof. Mitchel Harris, coordinated by Prof. dr. Job Doornberg and Dr. Soheil Ashkani, and with the participation of numerous renowned orthopedic surgeons and scientists from MGH and over 20 institutions in the Netherlands, we aimed to provide an education and research platform for aspiring innovators and researchers in the field the gain knowledge and experience from top-notch mentors in the field. This platform will empower aspiring innovators and researchers in the field to learn from exceptional mentors, fostering a spirit of exploration and innovation as well as high-quality mentorship that has been integral to our program since its inception. Our unwavering dedication to pioneering research, nurturing the next cadre of leaders, and leaving a profound impact on orthopedic care remains steadfast as we progress forward.

Application- You have the opportunity to apply for a short-term scientific internship (6 months to 1-year stay in Boston) or a long-term PhD position (+1 year stay in Boston) if you have an interest in research in Orthopaedic surgery and have a significant past research experience with at least one accepted peer-reviewed article. Please submit your motivational letter, CV, written support from your Alma Mater University in Holland, and recommendation letter from your Dutch supervisor to the application via the Website as well as your preferred supervisor and Division/ Center/ Lab at the MGH, Department of Orthopaedic Surgery (see here).

Admissions Process– First, your application will be reviewed by our Admissions Committee. Second, eligible students will be selected and matched to their respective Supervisor(s), Service/ Center/ Lab at MGH. An appropriate research protocol will be assigned to the candidates after discussions between them and the supervisors. In the Final Round, selected candidates will be invited to present an elevator pitch of their protocol during our Biannual Symposium (Hybrid: online from Holland and face-to-face in the Ether Dome at MGH). Applications are due Jan 7th every year to be selected for the Biannual Symposium in the first week of February, with the start date of September 1st of the same year. Mid-term applications are due August 1st to be selected for the Biannual Symposium on the first week of September of the same year, for the start date of March 1st of the following year.
Selected long-term PhD exchange students will be awarded ‘high potential PhD exchange seed money stipends’ from their home institution in the Netherlands. Receiving a base stipend from MGH should be discussed with the mentor(s)/Supervisor(s) and administration of MGH Orthopaedic Surgery Department and the specific Service/ Center/ Lab the candidate is aiming to get matched to since this is relative to various factors and is governed by MGH authorities and the Visa rules. Both MGH and Holland sponsors are encouraged to support applications for external grants and funds to support the students financially. Receiving stipends from the Additional personal grants and awards need to be applied for by individual candidates. These have been a traditional part of the program and can be applied for in the Spring (March/April) and Fall (October/November) rounds after nominees are awarded their respective positions. We encourage you to contact MHCORP alumni for more information and to share their experience and application strategies. Short-term positions will be awarded at least 24 IEI points for an equivalent internship of at least 6 months, but are unfunded due to the obligatory character at the respective Dutch Universities. Over the past two decades, many high-potential students have enjoyed their coming-of-academic-age in Boston. Are you part of the next generation?

Dutch Faculty and Mentors– Together with the faculty members and mentors at MGH, expert mentors will be working closely with the candidates from the Netherlands. Candidates will benefit from a diverse group of mentors and advisors who are experts in their field and will provide the most up-to-date knowledge and education. Visit this link for more information (Link)

Biannual Symposium– There will be biannual symposiums held in the US and also in the Netherlands. One symposium will be held in US and hosted by MGH in the historical “Ether Dome“. The other symposium will be held in the Netherlands hosted by the Dutch universities. Candidates and mentors will have the opportunity to present their projects, pitch their ideas, brainstorm and discuss with the experts, and build on their careers. Sponsors and supporters of the program will also have the chance to present themselves, their initiatives, and plans for the audience. Further information will be provided regarding the timing and the locations of these symposiums.

Biannual Symposium– There will be biannual symposiums held in the US and also in the Netherlands. One symposium will be held in US and hosted by MGH in the historical “Ether Dome“. The other symposium will be held in the Netherlands and will be hosted by Dutch universities. Candidates and mentors will have the opportunity to present their projects, pitch their ideas, brainstorm and discuss with the experts, and build on their careers. Sponsors and supporters of the program will also have the chance to present themselves, their initiatives, and plans for the audience. Further information will be provided regarding the timing and the locations of these symposiums.

The educational advisory board for the upcoming symposium: