International Junior Surgeon Travel Exchange
The International Junior Surgeon Travel Exchange by SSAT supports early-career surgeons in a global exchange to develop surgical skills, leadership, and international collaboration.
Funder: Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract
Due Dates: September 30, 2026
Funding Amounts: $5,000 USD stipend for travel, lodging, and meals; one-year exchange
Summary: Supports early-career US and international surgeons in a collaborative exchange to enhance surgical expertise and leadership within the SSAT community.
Description
This travel exchange program is designed to foster professional growth and collaboration between US-based and international early-career surgeons, with a particular emphasis on participants from low and middle-income countries. The initiative pairs one US SSAT member with one international member for reciprocal visits (4–5 days each in the respective home countries), providing both with a unique opportunity to broaden their surgical expertise and develop leadership skills. Awardees are recognized by the Society for Surgery of the Alimentary Tract (SSAT), present their experiences at Digestive Disease Week (DDW), and contribute written and podcast reflections to the SSAT community. The program aims to cultivate future leaders within SSAT global chapters and strengthen international networks in gastrointestinal surgery.
