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  2. Who We Are

Who We Are

The Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation (OREF) is a charitable 501(c)(3) organization committed to improving patients’ lives by funding musculoskeletal research that advances clinical practice. OREF was founded in 1955 by orthopaedic surgeons to help their colleagues investigate research questions important to the field, independent of commercial concerns. Since 1955, OREF has awarded more than 4,700 grants, providing nearly $150 million in support of musculoskeletal research.

OREF strives to improve clinical care and patient outcomes by advancing innovative research, developing new investigators, and uniting the orthopaedic community in promoting musculoskeletal health. As the leading grant-making resource for new investigators, OREF provides important financial support that helps them build a strong foundation for their research careers. Our research grant and education programs are funded entirely through donations and gifts from individuals, musculoskeletal health-focused organizations and foundations, and industry partners.

Female researcher at microscope

Mission

To fund innovative research that improves musculoskeletal health, support investigators throughout their careers, and collaborate with others to drive improvements in clinical practice.

Vision

OREF envisions a world in which all musculoskeletal injuries and conditions can be successfully treated, and the research needs of all are met.

Our Values

OREF is dedicated to funding musculoskeletal research that improves care and outcomes for all patients. This committment is reflected in the values that guide how we conduct our business and ourselves as we pursue our purpose, mission and vision. These values are:

  • Independence: in how we select the topics and grant recipients to be funded
  • Transparency: in our process, policies and results
  • Collaboration: believing that more can be accomplished when we work together
  • Integrity & Ethics: offering programs built on trust, accountability, mutual respect and fairness
  • Diversity, Equity & Inclusion: ensuring our programs are available to all and that the research we fund addresses the health priorities of all communities
  • Trust & Respect: the foundation of all we do, guiding our relationship with donors, grant recipients, patients and partners

 

The OREF Advantage

OREF is uniquely positioned to convene the best minds in orthopaedics to drive research forward. Through its diverse portfolio of funding and education programs, OREF brings together researchers, surgeons, industry partners and other important stakeholders to address the most important issues in orthopaedics today and to improve patient care, outcomes and quality of life.

  • We’ve Been a Leader in Orthopaedic Research Funding for More than 65 Years
  • We’re Dedicated to Improving Patient Care by Supporting Musculoskeletal Research
  • We’re Completely Independent and Donor Supported
  • We’re Committed to Supporting the Development of Investigators
  • We’re Focused on Reducing the Burden of Musculoskeletal Disease
  • We Believe Collaboration Makes Us All Stronger

Contact

  • 9400 W. Higgins Road, Suite 320, Rosemont, IL 60018
  • (847) 698-9980
  • (847) 698-7806
  • info@oref.org

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© 2025 Orthopaedic Research and Education Foundation. OREF is a 501(c)(3) organization; all contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.