James T Ryaby, PhD
Principal Scientific Advisor
Bone Growth Therapies Division
Scottsdale, AZ
Member Since: 1999
How has the AAOS helped you throughout your career?
The AAOS has given me the opportunity to engage and learn from esteemed colleagues in the orthopedic community. The annual meeting is always a highlight of my year, as it allows me to connect with leading orthopedic surgeons, many of whom are thought leaders, and to strengthen key professional relationships.
As an Allied member, which AAOS resources do you use most and why?
I rely most on the AAOS meetings, their publications, and the specialty meetings that the Academy co-sponsors with other societies, such as the Orthopedic Research Society. These resources are invaluable for staying connected with advances in the field.
What’s the best advice you were ever given? Who was it from?
My mentors taught me to accurately and carefully present research and clinical data, provide the proper context, and highlight both how it advances the field and what new questions it raises. This advice came from three of my most influential mentors: Dr. Joe Lane and Dr. Adele Boskey of the Hospital for Special Surgery, and Dr. Tom Einhorn of Boston University School of Medicine. I remain close with Joe, I honor Adele’s memory, and I still connect with Tom on his birthday each year.
What’s your go-to productivity trick?
I keep 20 years of emails organized into folders from key colleagues and mentors. This archive allows me to go back to important moments, projects, and data—even rabbit studies from decades ago. I also prepare for meetings by reviewing notes and slides ahead of time.
What’s one thing you’re currently trying to make a habit?
At this stage of my career, I focus on reading the literature and staying up to date with orthopedic and spine publications.
What hobbies do you enjoy in your spare time?
Tennis, hiking, and saltwater fly fishing. Recently, I spent time on the Delaware River in a drift boat—it’s peaceful, restorative, and a chance to enjoy nature even when the fish aren’t biting.
Tell us a fun fact about yourself that not many people know.
I love to cook and grill with my wife, and I pride myself on being a great griller.