courses

Biodesign Surgical Innovation Fellowship

Background

Progress in surgical science has been characterized by a continuous cycle of innovation from bedside to bench to bedside. Beginning 30,000 years ago with the first bone needles to the surgical lasers and robotics of today, each quantum leap has resulted from the convergence of technical advances and creative surgeons.

Technology continues to advance rapidly, becoming more interdisciplinary and complex; at the same time, clinical surgery has become increasingly demanding, requiring intense focus. As a result, the gap between technical advances and creative surgeons is growing.

Fellowship Two-Year Pathway

The two-year pathway for surgeons in training teaches the process of innovation to surgeons to bridge this gap. In the first year, fellows participate in didactic courses which teach the practical issues involved in bringing innovations to the bedside; fellows also serve as teaching assistants and mentors to the Biodesign Innovation course during this year.

 

The second year is spent further developing a project identified from the first year. At the completion of the program, the fellow will possess the requisite skills to become a significant contributor to the next cycle of surgical innovation. The potential to obtain a Master's Degree in Bioengineering at Stanford exists as well depending on the prior background of the fellow.

Who Should Apply

Resident/fellows in surgery who enjoy applying technology to solve unmet clinical needs and who thrive on the process of innovation are encouraged to apply for the Fellowship. Fellowship applicants are required to complete a detailed application. The successful candidates will be awarded a Fellowship and full Stipend.

See the Innovation Fellowship page for information on how to apply.