Application Deadline: June 2nd, 2024
Applications are now open for the 2025 AO Spine Fellowship. The AO Spine Fellowship Program offers a unique educational experience to the most promising young surgeons in the entire field of spine surgery. With this program, AO Spine provides a gateway to our worldwide network and fosters cross-pollination and networking opportunities across our global community.
Fellows will have the opportunity to learn from leading AO Spine experts in the carefully selected and renowned centers, covering the entire scope of spine surgical procedures performed around the world.
Aims
The purpose of an AO SESA fellowship is to provide additional experience for trained orthopedic surgeons and neurosurgeons interested in spinal surgery. It is the responsibility of the host Center to ensure that the fellow becomes conversant in the principles, indications, planning, techniques and complications of spinal surgery and develops the hands-on surgical skills for general spinal practice. Fellows are expected to enthusiastically immerse themselves in all aspects of the program offered by the host Center.
Duration
AO Spine offers short-term fellowships that range in duration from 2 weeks up to 8 weeks. In case the fellow would like to do a 12-week fellowship, the additional 4 weeks must be self-financed by the fellow and approved individually by the Spine Center.
An AO SESA short-term fellowship is granted at the discretion of AO SESA, based upon the candidate’s application and experience. Successful candidates must meet the following criteria:
• Be a current member of AO Spine, with an active membership since 12 months or more
• Be a spine physician (or in-training, but at least in the 4th year as resident in the specialty), or specialized in orthopedics, neurosurgery, or trauma surgery with a strong interest in spine surgery.
• Speak and understand English, or the local language where the AO Spine Center is located.
• Submit a complete online application form and required documents in time (April 22 to June 2)
• Have previously participated in an AO Spine Course.
• Have not participated in any other AO fellowship within the past three years (from the date when the application is handed in)
Required documents
• Letter of motivation
• Curriculum vitae (including list of publications)
• Copy of medical diploma (if in 4th year of residency) or specialization diploma (neuro/ortho)
• The most recent AO Spine event certificate
• 1 recommendation letter from a senior surgeon (signature and contact details)
• Copy of passport
• English proficiency (certificate or self-statement of competency)
More Info: AO Spine Fellowship Program
