HISTORY AND IMPACT
Over twenty years ago, Frank Chang, MD, one of the founding members of the Orthopedics Institute, started a summer internship program. Renowned for his surgical expertise, research contributions and dedication to his patients, the internship program embodied another cornerstone of Dr. Chang’ s legacy: his commitment to education. In creating this program, he envisioned a meaningful research opportunity for aspiring engineers, researchers and clinician-scientists.
What began as a small initiative has grown into a highly competitive, nationally recognized program that attracts applicants from across the United States. To date, more than 100 students have completed the internship, many of whom have gone on to careers in academic medicine or research, including current faculty members: Adam Seidl, MD, Patrick Carry, PhD, and Nicole Look, MD.
The success of the program is attributable to the collaborative efforts of a large interdisciplinary team from the Orthopedics Institute at Children’ s Colorado, including research staff in the MRC and CGMA, nurses, physical therapists, advanced practice providers and genetic counselors. Team members generously volunteer their time through clinical shadowing opportunities, participation in the summer lecture series and most importantly, mentorship.
PROGRAM STRUCTURE
The program offers two tracks: one for clinical research and another for engineering. Clinical research interns collaborate with clinicians, engineers, statisticians and researchers on projects that include literature and chart reviews, data collection and manuscript preparation. While engineering interns focus on applying and adapting technology to enhance clinical decision-making, working on projects such as integrating motion capture technology into physical therapy, surgical evaluation, rehabilitation and other clinical workflows. All interns participate in a weekly lecture series covering topics like research design, biostatistics, engineering principles and the latest advances in pediatric orthopedic research. In addition, they gain valuable clinical exposure through shadowing opportunities. The program culminates in a symposium, where interns present their research findings to faculty, staff and peers.
Applications open each fall for the next class of leaders. Learn about the application process and get more details on our website:
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