Orthopaedic Surgery Research

The Department of Orthopaedic Surgery includes a robust research program that brings together an internationally recognized network of scientists—from across the University and at partner institutions—to elucidate mechanisms of pathogenesis of musculoskeletal disease, create innovative technology for cutting-edge musculoskeletal research, and develop novel strategies to improve the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of musculoskeletal conditions. While discovery is at the heart of what the scientists do, they are also focused on translating their findings into clinical solutions for patients in need of orthopaedic care. Those efforts are bolstered by the involvement of practicing surgeons who aim to develop new treatment strategies and diagnostic tools that can improve pain and function, leading to better outcomes for patients with musculoskeletal conditions and diseases.

Research Faculty

Our faculty includes researchers in orthopaedic surgery, physiology and cell biology, endocrinology and metabolism, biomechanical and biomedical engineering, and other specialties who are working to create and disseminate new knowledge that will ultimately translate into novel discoveries and improved care for patients.

Razorback Research Catalyst

The Razorback Research Catalyst is a joint initiative between the University of Arkansas and UAMS that supports high-impact, multidisciplinary research collaborations. By bringing together experts across both institutions, the program advances innovative discoveries, strengthens Arkansas’ research enterprise, and positions teams to compete for major external funding that improves health and well-being across the state.

Center for Musculoskeletal Disease Research (CMDR)

The Center for Musculoskeletal Disease Research (CMDR) is a COBRE-funded center established to promote and expand musculoskeletal research in the state of Arkansas. Charles O’Brien, Ph.D., serves as the Director, and Maria Almeida, Ph.D., serves as the Associate Director.

Research All stars

Hip and Knee Surgery Research All-Stars

We are proud to be named among the Avant-garde Health Hip and Knee Surgery Research All-Stars for 2025. UAMS Hip and Knee Joint Replacement Surgeons C. Lowry Barnes, M.D., Jeffrey Stambough, M.D., and Benjamin Stronach, M.D., and Simon Mears, M.D., Ph.D. are among the top 3% of Hip and Knee Surgeons named as Research All-Stars for 2025 based on publication volume, journal impact factor, and author position.

innovation

Delivering Innovation for Impact

UAMS orthopaedic hand surgeons John Bracey, M.D. and Mark Tait, M.D. along with neurosurgeon Erica Petersen, M.D. implant innovative prosthetic hand, developed by researchers at the Institute for Integrative and Innovative Research (I³R), that restores a meaningful sense of touch and grip force following surgery at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS). Read more

 

Orthopaedic Research Laboratories