A year-long research internship for students interested in clinical medical ethics and strengthening their experience for future work in clinical ethics and the medical field

Applications for the 2026-27 academic year are now open until February 20, 2026.

This position is ideal for students interested in conducting research and gaining knowledge in clinical and medical ethics during gap years between their undergraduate education and graduate training programs.

Post-baccalaureate researchers work in the MacLean Center for Clinical Medical Ethics and conduct mentored research for one year. The program offers direct mentorship with faculty from the MacLean Center, through which trainees develop valuable skills in empirical research methods and normative analyses, understanding how ethics research is performed at the macroscopic study design level down to granular data collection, interpretation, and dissemination. Researchers are expected to dedicate 30 hours per week to their research projects and scholarly activities. They contribute to projects in numerous ways, from conception and execution of independent inquiries to integrating into ongoing studies (examples include developing study designs, patient-facing surveying/interviewing, data gathering/analysis, literature review, and writing manuscripts for dissemination). An emphasis is placed upon critical thinking, discourse, and writing surrounding ongoing ethical dilemmas and issues in the practice of modern healthcare.

In addition to setting and achieving their scholarship goals over the year, students form lasting relationships with mentors and colleagues throughout the MacLean Center, University of Chicago, and other partnerships.

Fellowships begin in July of each year.

Enrichment opportunities:

• Overlap with the MacLean Clinical Ethics Fellowship Program
  • Joining the Ethics Consultation Service
  • Participating in Weekly Case Conferences
  • Attending Weekly Seminars/Lectures
  • Attending Research Conferences
  • Networking, Community, and Professional Development
• Observation in Fields of Interest

Eligibility

To be eligible, students must have completed an undergraduate degree no more than 3 years prior to the start date of the fellowship. Only U.S. citizens or U.S. Legal Permanent Residents are eligible for this position. The position is ideal for students interested in pursuing graduate work in medicine. All applicants must pass a background check prior to their start date. Accepted trainees are responsible for commuting to and from the University of Chicago Medical Center at Hyde Park during working hours.

Renumeration

A one-time stipend of $5000
Reimbursement for one domestic conference, if accepted for presentation (airfare, lodging for up to two nights)

How to Apply

Applications should be emailed to Baddr Shakhsheer; Baddr.Shakhsheer@bsd.uchicago.edu by February 20, 2026.

Applications should include:

1. A statement of interest of up to 500 words which explains your interest in clinical medical ethics, how this position will be valuable to your career goals, and what potential topics you hope to investigate. While previous ethics experience is not mandatory, please explain what you bring to the table. For applicants with previous experience or training, please explain how our position would build on your previous efforts. You may also discuss any aspects of your lived experiences that would bring a unique perspective to our community, although this is not required.
2. One or two writing samples that total no more than 20 double-spaced pages and which demonstrate your analytical or critical thinking ability. They need not be on an ethics topic, and there is no preference for published work. Most successful applicants submit samples that defend a position or analyze an argument. Empirical investigations, both quantitative and qualitative, are also welcome. Single-authored writing samples are preferred. If you are submitting a co-authored sample, please describe in detail your role in the writing process.
3. Two Letters of Recommendation. Opinions of those who can speak to your research, critical thinking, teamwork, and/or academic skills are helpful.
4. Resume/CV.
5. Undergraduate transcript. Unofficial transcripts are acceptable for application. Submission of official transcripts will be required upon conditional acceptance.

Contact

For more information or questions, please contact:

Baddr Shakhsheer, MD, FACS, FAAP, HEC-C

Baddr.Shakhsheer@bsd.uchicago.edu