Boston University Medical Center Program

The ACGME Dermatopathology Fellowship Training Program at Boston University Medical Center is a two-year fellowship designed to foster academic careers in Dermatopathology within the United States. This program emphasizes comprehensive training in diagnostic dermatopathology, supported by an extensive case volume of over 20,000 accessions annually. This includes consultations on previously prepared slides, ensuring a high proportion of complex cases which fellows have the opportunity to review prior to final interpretation by attending staff.

Fellows in the program receive additional instruction in advanced diagnostic techniques, including immunoperoxidase methodologies and molecular biological approaches. Opportunities for research abound, with focuses on clinicopathologic studies, ultrastructural analysis, and molecular investigations related to various skin diseases, thereby enriching the academic aspect of the training.

Program Structure

The structure of the fellowship is meticulously designed to balance research and practical experience. The first year prioritizes in-depth research projects, allowing fellows to deepen their expertise in specific areas of dermatopathology. The second year progressively incorporates practical experience, dividing time between dedicated dermatopathology rotations and an 8-month clinical or surgical pathology rotation—depending on whether the fellow has a background in dermatology or pathology. Importantly, dermatopathology training continues throughout these rotations.

Participation in educational responsibilities is expected from fellows throughout the training period, ensuring that they are not only learners but also contributors to the academic environment.

Stipends and Requirements

Fellow stipends are commensurate with their postgraduate year levels. To qualify for this fellowship, applicants must be board eligible or certified in either pathology (AP or AP/CP) or dermatology. An important aspect to note is that applicants need to submit a complete application package that includes at least three letters of recommendation by the stipulated deadlines, which includes a start date for successful candidates on July 1, 2026, while applications are due by September 4, 2024.

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The fellowship program is noted for being competitive, admitting a select number of candidates each year. The program does exhibit a degree of flexibility with regard to international medical graduates (IMGs), and it does sponsor H-1B visas, which facilitates admission for foreign-trained applicants seeking to pursue this fellowship.

Unique Aspects and Fellow Assistance

This program not only focuses on rigorous academic training in dermatopathology but also on the comprehensive care and management of skin diseases. Unique to this fellowship is the depth of exposure to various subspecialties through affiliations with other training programs at Boston University, including opportunities for multidisciplinary collaboration.

For fellows looking to further their experience and skills, the program offers extensive research opportunities, clinical rotations, and the chance to contribute to academic teaching, thereby preparing graduates for successful careers in dermatopathology.