Center for Surgical Training & Research (CSTAR) Research Scholarship
The Center for Surgical Training and Research (CSTAR) at the U-M Medical School Department of Surgery is pleased to announce the launch of the CSTAR Research Scholarship, a new opportunity for U.S. medical students with a strong interest in surgical education research to train with CSTAR during an on-campus experience.
The pilot year will take place during the 2025–2026 academic cycle, with two $5,000 scholarships available to support two visiting medical student researchers.
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Supporting Leaders in Surgical Education Research
This scholarship is designed to support U.S. medical students, particularly those from institutions without formal infrastructure in surgical education research, by providing early and meaningful exposure to the field. CSTAR has a history of mentoring high achieving trainees who have gone on to secure academic positions at leading institutions.
This program builds on that success by focusing on undergraduate medical education (UME) learners and fostering future leaders in academic surgery.
- Timing: The research experience will occur over a 4- to 8-week period between January 5, 2026, and May 15, 2026.
- Location: University of Michigan, Ann Arbor
- Stipend: $5,000 (intended to partially cover travel, housing, meals, and living expenses)
How to Apply
Interested applicants should submit their complete application through the CSTAR On Campus Research Scholarship Application Google Form. A complete application includes the following:
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- One-page Letter of Intent
- Two Letters of Recommendation
Applicants are encouraged to begin preparing early by identifying their research interests and confirming research opportunities with their home institution.
- Deadline to Apply: October 17, 2025
- Notification of Recipients: November 7, 2025
Eligibility
Eligible applicants are current M2, M3, or M4 U.S. medical students who have dedicated research time available and an interest in academic surgery and surgical education. Preference will be given to students from institutions that do not currently offer robust opportunities in surgical education research.
Program Highlights
Through this initiative, CSTAR aims to continue fostering the national collaboration of future academic surgeons and promote excellence and innovation in surgical education research. Scholars will leave with foundational research experience, lasting mentorship relationships, and the tools to further their academic and professional goals.
Participants will be fully integrated into the CSTAR research environment and will benefit from:
- One-on-one mentorship with CSTAR faculty and research staff
- A structured weekly curriculum series covering key topics in surgical education and research methods
- Access to U-M’s advanced educational facilities, including the Clinical Simulation Center and dedicated workspace
- Presentation opportunities at CSTAR research meetings, with support to prepare for potential regional or national conferences
- Professional development and networking with a diverse and collaborative research community
Program Leadership
Gurjit Sandhu, PhD
Professor of Learning Health Sciences
Medical School
See Where Training Takes Place
Expand your career trajectory in a high-volume academic medical center that also supports and excels in a wide range of basic science, translational and clinic outcomes research programs.
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