Summer Research Program
Medical students like Mary Kate Frauenheim (right) have the opportunity to learn from experts like Robert H. Ablove, MD, during our summer research program.
We’re devoted to helping you excel in orthopaedic research. Our unique summer program helps you build critical skills required to conduct quality, meaningful research.
About the Program
Our seven-week mentored research program is designed for matriculated medical students in between their first and second years of medical school (M1-M2). We welcome hardworking individuals interested in pursuing orthopaedic research to apply.
This program offers two tracks: a local program for Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Science students and a remote program for students enrolled at other medical schools.
Lectures occur from 3–4 p.m. ET on Wednesdays at Erie County Medical Center for local students and via Zoom for remote students.
The program will run from June 10 through July 22 for Summer 2026.
Local Pathway
Students will be asked about their specific interests during the application process and paired with a mentor. Roles within these projects will be determined between the student and mentor. Previous projects have included clinical studies, retrospective chart reviews, cadaveric studies, and systematic reviews/meta-analyses. This pathway is open to Jacobs School students only.
- Students are required to attend five out of six lectures in person.
- Students are required to present their work at the conclusion of the summer program to receive credit.
- Chairman’s Grant
- A limited number of $750 awards to dedicated students who apply and meet the grant’s necessary requirements.
- More information will be provided after acceptance into the summer program.
Remote Pathway
Medical students from around the globe, including Jacobs School students, are welcome to apply for our remote pathway. Students will be asked to provide three project ideas during the application process that will be screened by the summer program team to assign mentors. Previous projects have included literature reviews, systematic reviews/meta-analyses, case reports, and database studies.
- Students will be required to remotely attend five out of six lectures during the summer and final presentations of the local student projects.
- Students will be required to submit a completed abstract at the conclusion of the program.
- All students are welcome to attend lectures or final presentations in person. However, funding for housing and travel will not be provided.
UB Medical Students
UB medical students are welcome to pursue the remote pathway if they cannot attend lectures in person during the summer.
Gain Invaluable Research Skills
In addition to valuable mentorship, medical students will have the opportunity to learn from our expert research faculty and staff during weekly didactics, on topics such as:
- conducting a literature search
- manuscript writing
- presenting talks and posters
- building your residency application
Present Your Work
Our medical students have presented at national meetings such as:
- American Association of Orthopaedic Surgeons
- Orthopaedic Research Society
- American Society for Surgery of the Hand
- Eastern Orthopaedic Association
Students have published their work in journals including
- Hand (N.Y), Global Spine Journal
- Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
- Journal of Hand Surgery
Students are encouraged to continue their research with the Department of Orthopaedics after the completion of the program, with publication as a goal.
Application
Applications are due March 31, 2026. Students will be notified of acceptance on April 25, 2026.
Applications will open Dec. 1, 2025. Check back here for instructions.
Contact Us
If you have any questions regarding the summer program, please email us at: OrthoSummerResearch@buffalo.edu