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Academic Spine information

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$11K

$55.6K

$146.5K

How much do academic spine jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 4, 2026, the average yearly pay for academic spine in the United States is $55,572.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $34,500.00 and $60,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Academic Spine vs Academic Researcher?

AspectAcademic SpineAcademic Researcher
Required CredentialsTypically requires a medical degree, specialized training in spine surgery, and board certificationUsually holds a master's or doctoral degree in a relevant field, such as neuroscience or biomedical sciences
Work EnvironmentHospitals, clinics, specialized surgical centersUniversities, research institutes, laboratories
Employer & Industry UsageMedical institutions, healthcare industryAcademic institutions, research organizations
Common Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding clinical roles and surgical expertiseExploring research-focused careers in academia

The main difference between an Academic Spine specialist and an Academic Researcher lies in their focus and work environment. Academic Spine professionals are medical doctors specializing in spine surgery, working primarily in clinical settings. In contrast, Academic Researchers focus on scientific studies and experiments within academic or research institutions. Both roles require advanced education, but their career paths and daily activities differ significantly.

What are academic spine jobs?

Academic spine jobs refer to roles within universities or research institutions that form the core framework supporting academic activities. These positions often include faculty members, lecturers, researchers, and academic administrators who contribute to teaching, research, and the development of academic programs. The 'spine' metaphor reflects their central importance in maintaining the educational and research mission of the institution. In some regions, the term also relates to the career progression path for academics, outlining the stages from entry-level positions to senior professorships.

What are some typical challenges faced by Academic Spine specialists in balancing clinical, teaching, and research responsibilities?

Academic Spine specialists often juggle multiple responsibilities, including patient care, teaching medical students or residents, and conducting research. Balancing these duties can be challenging, especially when clinical demands are high or research deadlines approach. Effective time management and clear communication with colleagues are essential to ensure that each area receives adequate attention. Many academic institutions provide mentorship and structured schedules to support their spine specialists in achieving a sustainable balance and advancing their careers.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an Academic Spine Surgeon, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Academic Spine Surgeon, you need advanced medical training in orthopedic or neurosurgery with a spine surgery fellowship, board certification, and experience in both clinical and academic settings. Familiarity with specialized surgical tools, imaging technologies, and research methodologies is typical, along with proficiency in electronic medical records (EMRs). Leadership, effective communication, and a commitment to teaching and continuous learning are standout soft skills for this role. These skills are crucial for delivering high-quality patient care, advancing research, and training the next generation of spine specialists in academic medical centers.
More about Academic Spine jobs
What states have the most Academic Spine jobs? States with the most job openings for Academic Spine jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Academic Spine jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Academic Spine jobs are:
Academic Spine jobs near you
Infographic showing various Academic Spine job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 14% Part Time, and 2% Contract. Highlights an 95% In-person, and 5% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $55,572 per year, or $26.7 per hour.
Chief, Orthopedic Surgery, Spine

Chief, Orthopedic Surgery, Spine

AMN Healthcare, Inc.

Durham, NC

Full-time

Posted 9 days ago

Job description

Job Description & Requirements
Chief, Orthopedic Surgery, Spine
StartDate: ASAP Pay Rate: $724000.00 - $900000.00

Duke University School of Medicine


Duke Health seeks an accomplished academic spine surgeon to serve as Chief of the Spine Division, an integrated program bringing together Orthopaedic Surgery and Neurosurgery to create a national model for comprehensive spine care. Reporting jointly to the Chairs of Orthopaedic Surgery and Neurosurgery, the Chief will lead the clinical, academic, research, and operational missions of the Division while serving as the System Medical Director for Spine in the new Neuroscience & Spine Service Line.


This is a rare opportunity to build and lead one of the nation’s most distinctive academic spine enterprises. The Chief will develop and implement a strategic vision for the Division, unify faculty across departments, strengthen patient access and quality, align clinical and financial performance, and expand Duke’s national leadership in spine research and innovation. The Division includes approximately 34 providers, including 15 surgeons and 11 advanced practice providers, and supports more than 46,000 annual patient visits and 4,000 surgical procedures.


Key responsibilities include leading divisional strategy and operations; overseeing clinical growth, quality, and financial performance; advancing research and academic programs; mentoring faculty; supporting residency and fellowship education; and fostering a collaborative culture across surgical and non-operative spine disciplines, including PM&R, pain management, rehabilitation, and related specialties. The Chief will play a central role in creating an integrated “one-stop” spine program that delivers exceptional patient-centered care while advancing innovation and discovery.


Candidates must be board-certified in Orthopaedic Surgery or Neurosurgery, eligible for North Carolina licensure, and qualified for appointment at the Associate or Full Professor level. The successful candidate will possess a distinguished record of academic achievement, demonstrated success as a physician leader, strong business and operational acumen, and the ability to build consensus and lead effectively within a complex matrixed academic health system.


Opportunity Highlights

  • Newly created joint Spine Division integrating Orthopaedic Surgery and Neurosurgery, supported by the health system. 
  • Physician leader for the spine component of the broader Neuroscience & Spine service line. 
  • Dual reporting to department chairs with matrixed reporting across health system leadership. 
  • Up to 30% administrative/protected time to lead strategy, operations, and culture. 
  • Clinical focus is flexible across spine subspecialties; emphasis is on leadership, integration, and outcomes. 
  • Lead a multidisciplinary “one-stop” model spanning surgical and nonoperative care, including physiatry, pain management, rehabilitation, and additional specialty support. 
  • Scope includes approximately 34 providers, including 15 surgeons and 11 advanced practice providers, plus a broad care team. 
  • High-volume platform with an estimated 46,000 billed visits and 4,000 surgical cases annually. 
  • First 12–18 months priorities include building trust, aligning compensation models, strengthening quality metrics, and standardizing patient access across departments. 
  • Research is a core pillar: expand programs in outcomes, safety, and clinical innovation through mentorship and strategic investment. Doctor of medicine (or equivalent), board-certified in Orthopaedic Surgery or Neurosurgery, and eligible for North Carolina licensure. 
  • Eligible for Associate or Full Professor appointment; strong academic track record and national reputation preferred. 
  • Demonstrated success leading in complex, matrixed environments, with business, operational, and culture-building capability. 


Community Information: Durham, North Carolina

Durham sits in the Research Triangle, where academic medicine, life sciences, and technology intersect—offering a strong platform for professional impact and a lifestyle that balances energy with access to the outdoors. Niche rates Durham highly for diversity and overall livability, and AreaVibes assigns Durham an “Exceptional” livability score driven by strong amenities and commute factors. 


  • Research Triangle momentum: Duke and regional partners anchor a dense innovation ecosystem across health care, biotech, and tech.  
  • Livability signals: Durham scores 81 on AreaVibes livability, with A+ marks in amenities and commute. 
  • Easy national access: Raleigh-Durham International Airport projected 15.5 million passengers in 2025 and continues to add nonstop options.  



Facility Location
Home to Duke University and Research Triangle Park, Durham offers a wide variety of cultural and outdoor activities, a reasonable cost of living and highly prestigious medical facilities. Southern, yet cosmopolitan, laid back yet bursting with energy, this North Carolina city is a sought-after destination throughout the year.
Job Benefits
About the Company
At AMN Healthcare, we strive to be recognized as the most trusted, innovative, and influential force in helping healthcare organizations provide quality patient care that continually evolves to make healthcare more human, more effective, and more achievable.
Spine Orthopedic Surgery, Spine Orthopaedic Surgery, Orthopedic Surgeon, Orthopaedic Surgeon, Orthopedic Physician, Orthopaedic Physician, Orthopedics, Orthopaedics, Physician, Md, Spine Surgery, Spin

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