Each orthopaedic resident is required to complete a Harbor research project by the end of the PGY3 year. A faculty advisor supervises the research activity of that resident and frequently collaborates in the design, execution and completion of the project. All research projects are conducted under the auspices of LA BioMed.

Each PGY3 Harbor research project is presented at the Annual Orthopaedic Education/Alumni Day Scientific Program held at the end of the academic year by the department. Residents are encouraged to also submit their research projects for presentation at regional and national meetings, and for consideration for publication.

A research project is also required during the Cedars-Sinai rotation and the Shriners Hospital rotation. Research topics will be chosen from the areas of clinical exposure on these rotations which consist of: orthopaedic oncology, joint arthroplasty/adult reconstruction, adult and adolescent sport medicine, foot and ankle, spine, and pediatrics. Each resident can choose or will be assigned a faculty advisor to provide guidance and oversight. It is expected that these projects will also be prepared for presentation at regional or national meetings. Each resident is encouraged to prepare a manuscript of their research work for submission for consideration for publication.