Sydney Shoulder Research Institute - Previous Fellows
2023 Fellow
Dr Matthew Donaldson
Sydney, AUSTRALIA
BIO
Dr. Matthew Donaldson is an accomplished orthopaedic surgeon originally from Sydney. He completed a Bachelor of Advanced Science and Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery at the University of Sydney before embarking on Orthopaedic Surgery training through the Australian Orthopaedic Association.
During his training, Matt developed a strong passion for Shoulder and Elbow surgery, which led him to pursue a fellowship at the Sydney Shoulder Research Institute (SSRI). There, he gained extensive experience managing complex upper limb conditions.
Matt went on to work as a Locum Visiting Medical Officer (VMO) at St George and The Sutherland Hospitals, as well as at regional centres. These roles helped him refine his expertise in trauma and upper limb surgery. In 2024, Matt moved to Lyon, France, to undertake a second prestigious fellowship at the Santy Orthopaedic Centre, where he focused on advanced shoulder surgery techniques.
Outside of his medical career, Matt enjoys spending time with his wife and two young children. He has embraced the opportunity to immerse himself in French culture, learning the language and exploring the region’s rich history, cuisine, and ski fields.
Upon completing his fellowship, Matt plans to return to Australia to bring his international expertise to his practice. He remains committed to advancing patient care while contributing to research and education in Shoulder, Elbow, and Trauma Surgery.
Fellowship Story
My association with the Sydney Shoulder Research Institute (SSRI) began in 2013 when I joined as an intern, assisting with research documentation. After completing my orthopaedic training, a decade later I returned to SSRI as a Fellow. One of my first initiatives as a Fellow was to follow up with the patients we had studied 10 years earlier and, as I had hoped, they were all doing really well! To cap off my chapter with the SSRI, this research was presented at the 2024 Shoulder and Elbow Society of Australia meeting.
My time at the SSRI marks a pivotal period in my professional development. I am incredibly grateful to Jasmin, Dr. Cass, Dr. Young, Dr. Hughes, and Dr. Moopanar for inviting me to work with such an accomplished, well-respected and dedicated team and for their invaluable mentorship. Being part of such a supportive and inspiring group has been a privilege.