Mentorship Program
The Medical Dermatology Society’s Mentorship Program is a standout benefit for members seeking hands-on experience, expert insight, and career-shaping connections in medical dermatology.
This competitive program supports residents, fellows, and early-career faculty through a structured, four-week mentorship with a seasoned MDS member. Participants gain first-hand exposure to complex dermatologic conditions, explore academic and clinical career paths, and receive at least $3,000 in support for mentorship-related travel and expenses.
Why Apply?
- Personalized learning from leaders in medical dermatology
- Exposure to high-impact cases and diverse clinical settings
- Funding support for travel, housing, and related expenses
- Connection to a national network of mentors and peers
- Recognition at the MDS Annual Meeting
Who Can Participate?
- Mentees: Dermatology residents, fellows, and junior faculty
- Mentors: MDS members who are faculty at a different institution than the mentee
Note: Both participants must be current members of the Medical Dermatology Society. Not a member yet? Learn more about joining MDS.
Program Structure
- Rotation Timing: Mentorships take place over approximately 15 months, beginning in April and concluding at the end of June the following year.
- Format: Four weeks total; at least two must be in-person, with the option to complete up to two weeks remotely
- Flexibility: Alternate schedules must be pre-approved by MDS with a letter from the applicant’s program director
Funding + Eligibility
- $3,000+ to support travel, lodging and meal expenses for the rotation.
- Preference is given to applicants without other funding sources or access to similar opportunities at their home institutions
- MDS supports diversity and equity in mentorship; awards aim to reflect the diversity of our field and patient communities
- Applicants must submit a full application, including a mentor’s letter of recommendation and a proposed project description
Make this experience possible for future trainees.
Mentee Requirements
Mentees are expected to maintain regular contact with your mentor and submit receipts and a final budget for expenses, as well as participating in shaping future mentorship through shared insights and reporting.
Applications open each year in the fall and the deadline to apply is in early December.
Want to Become a Mentor?
If you’re an MDS member and faculty leader in medical dermatology, you can play a meaningful role in shaping the next generation.
Interested in the MDS Mentorship Program?
Be the first to hear when the next round of mentee applications opens and learn how to get involved. Sign up below to receive program updates.