University of California (San Diego) Medical Center Program

The UC San Diego Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship Program is a one-year training program accredited by the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) and the American College of Mohs Surgery (ACMS). Under the direction of renowned faculty, this fellowship aims to provide comprehensive clinical training in cutaneous surgery and oncology, essential for developing highly skilled practitioners in the field

This program offers extensive training at the state-of-the-art facilities located at University Center Lane in La Jolla. The fellows have access to a new dermatologic surgery center with nine procedure rooms that utilize advanced surgical technology, including LED surgical lights and ergonomic power procedure tables. The on-site Mohs laboratory is equipped with cryostats and automated staining systems capable of supporting various research and clinical needs

Procedures and Clinical Services

During their fellowship, participants can engage in a wide range of dermatologic surgery activities. Key procedures include Mohs micrographic surgery, reconstructive surgeries, skin biopsies, and specialized techniques for cosmetic dermatology. Fellows will also have opportunities to work with experts in various cosmetic procedures such as sclerotherapy, neurotoxins, and laser treatments, thereby acquiring a broad skill set within both surgical and aesthetic dermatology contexts

Conferences and Professional Development

Fellows are encouraged to participate in a robust conference schedule that includes multidisciplinary tumor boards, journal clubs, and dermatopathology conferences. The program emphasizes a learning-oriented environment with opportunities for fellows to contribute to national conferences through research presentations, thereby enhancing their professional standing and expertise within the field of dermatologic surgery

Application Process and Requirements

Applicants must be graduates of a U.S. ACGME-accredited dermatology residency or an equivalent Canadian program. The program encourages candidates aiming for an academic career in dermatology to apply, highlighting the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration for success in Mohs surgery.

The application is processed through the Centralized Application Service, also known as the San Francisco Match, with completed applications due by August 1 of the relevant year. Importantly, this program does not allow for visiting rotations or in-person interviews due to institutional policy

Visa Support and Competitiveness

The UC San Diego program supports a visa sponsorship for international applicants, typically providing H-1B visa sponsorship. This adds an advantageous aspect for international medical graduates (IMGs) considering applying to the fellowship. The program prides itself on being inclusive and helpful for both U.S. citizens and IMGs, which makes it more accessible for a broad range of candidates

Research Opportunities

In addition to clinical training, fellows are expected to initiate and complete a research project during their fellowship. This project should aim for publication and presentation at national meetings, which especially enriches the academic training aspect of the fellowship program

Former Fellows

The fellowship has a rich history of producing accomplished dermatologic surgeons who contribute significantly to the field. Details regarding the program's former fellows are accessible, further illuminating the program's success and the caliber of training provided