University of Washington Program

The University of Washington Fellowship in Dermatopathology is a one-year, multidisciplinary training program designed to provide comprehensive specialties in dermatopathology. This fellowship is structured to integrate both clinical and laboratory training, preparing fellow trainees for independent practice within this subspecialty.

During the training year, fellows are exposed to a variety of case experiences, which include both routine and complex dermatopathology cases. The fellowship program houses a well-stocked repository of histological specimens, bolstered by demographic diversity and complexity due to the Program's affiliation with a tertiary referral center known for its extensive collection of in-house and consultative cases. This environment offers a wealth of educational experiences including hands-on training and exposure to multiple diagnostic techniques, such as immunohistochemistry and molecular diagnostics.

Curriculum and Rotations

The curriculum is robust and involves numerous interactions with related fields such as clinical dermatology, oral pathology, and soft tissue pathology. Each fellow is expected to participate actively in various clinical conferences, teaching sessions, and mentoring of residents, which fosters professional development and deepens their understanding of the field 1.

Fellows are required to complete a series of intensive clinical rotations that encompass a wide range of dermatopathological cases. The educational experience is structured to enhance diagnostic skills while allowing for the exploration of academic interests in research and teaching 1.

Research and Education

Research is a significant component of the fellowship, with encouragement for fellows to partake in ongoing projects within both the pathology and dermatology departments. This fosters a mix of clinical training with academic rigor, allowing fellows to hone their research skills and contribute to scholarly work. The program also aids fellows in the development of presentations for conferences and publications 1.

Program Goals and Objectives

The overarching goals of the dermatopathology fellowship program include training fellows in the independent practice of dermatopathology, guiding trainees in their personal and career development, and preparing fellows for academic careers by mentoring them in scientific writing and grant application processes 1.

Competitiveness and Application Requirements

The Dermatopathology fellowship at the University of Washington is competitive, requiring prior completion of a residency in dermatology, anatomic pathology, or combined anatomic and clinical pathology. The fellowship program aims to attract diverse and intellectually motivated trainees 1. Specific eligibility requirements may include maximum limits on failed examinations and necessary certification prerequisites.

Stipend and Benefits

The fellowship appointment spans one year and comes with a stipend and benefits that align with the resident schedule for an equivalent training level. It is also encouraged for fellows to seek external funding for additional research training if desired 1.

Visa Support

The program provides support for visa applications, specifically for candidates needing an H-1B visa. While J-1 visas are not specified, the fellowship is amenable to international applications, reinforcing its openness to a broad range of candidates 1.

Training Sites

The fellowship primarily takes place within the University of Washington Medical Center (UWMC) and its affiliated hospitals, which include Harborview Medical Center and Seattle Children's Hospital. These institutions provide an environment rich in clinical diversity and pathology practice experience 1.

Unique Aspects of the Program

The multidisciplinary nature of the program not only enhances the fellowship experience for trainees but also ensures exposure to various clinical aspects of dermatologic pathology. Additionally, engagement with faculty across departments provides a unique opportunity for mentorship and collaboration on innovative projects in the field of dermatopathology 1.