Research Fellowship in Spinal Surgery (Deformity & Complex Spine)

Athens Medical Centre

Institution: Athens Medical Centre
Department: Osteon Deformity & Complex Spine Surgery Unit
Director: Dr. Konstantinos A. Starantzis, MD, PhD
Designation: Eurospine Surgical Centre of Excellence
Duration: 1 year
Salary: €10,000–€15,000 per annum (based on qualifications and experience)

Position Overview

Our Department is seeking a motivated Research Fellow to join the Deformity and Complex Spine Department, under the supervision of Dr. Starantzis. This 12-month research fellowship offers an exceptional opportunity to engage in advanced clinical research within one of Europe’s recognized Eurospine Surgical Centres of Excellence, focusing but not restricted on spinal deformity, complex spinal reconstruction, navigated/robotic spine surgery and related clinical outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Design, conduct, and coordinate clinical and translational research projects related to spinal deformity and complex spine surgery.
Collaborate closely with attending surgeons, fellows, and admin staff in the department to collect, manage, and analyze clinical data.
Prepare and submit abstracts and presentations for international and national scientific meetings, including:

- At least one successful submission to EUROSPINE or the Scoliosis Research Society (SRS).
- At least three successful submissions to national conferences (HAOST / HSSS).

Prepare and submit at least one peer-reviewed publication to a PubMed-indexed journal within the fellowship year.
Participate in ongoing departmental research initiatives, including clinical database management (Spine Tango) and outcomes assessment.
Contribute to journal clubs, internal research meetings, and academic discussions within the department.
Optionally assist in the supervision of junior residents and students involved in research activities.

Candidate Profile

Essential Qualifications:

MD or equivalent medical degree.
Strong analytical, writing, and presentation skills in English.
Commitment to academic productivity and collaborative teamwork.

Desirable Qualifications:

Background in orthopaedic or neurosurgery with demonstrated interest in spinal deformity and complex spine surgery.
Previous research experience and familiarity with clinical data collection, statistics, or academic writing.
Basic knowledge of research ethics, study design, and publication processes.
Experience with spine-related registries or patient-reported outcome measures.

Learning Objectives

By the end of the fellowship, the successful candidate will:

Gain in-depth exposure to research methodologies in spinal deformity and complex spine surgery.
Develop skills in study design, data analysis, and academic writing.
Contribute to the international academic community through presentations and publications.
Build professional connections within the Eurospine and SRS research networks.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following:

Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Brief cover letter outlining motivation and relevant experience
Contact information for two academic or clinical references

Applications should be sent to:
Starantzis@osteon.gr
Deadline: 16 Nov 2025