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Women’s Dermatologic Society (WDS) & Yale Dermatology Research Fellowship

In collaboration with WDS and La Roche-Posay, the Department of Dermatology offers a funded, one-year Dermatology Research Fellowship designed to support the development of future physician-scientists and academically oriented clinicians. This flexible, on-campus program accommodates applicants at key transition points in medical training and provides immersive research, mentorship, and career development opportunities.

Overview

  • This fellowship begins on July 1, 2026, and provides a broad and comprehensive experience in dermatology research, with opportunities spanning:
  • Basic science research
  • Translational research
  • Clinical and outcomes research

Fellows will be trained in research methodologies relevant to their selected projects and will work closely with faculty mentors to complete one or more scholarly projects

Fellowship Tracks

Medical Student Visiting Research Assistant (“Fifth Year” Option)

Medical students enrolled in accredited programs are invited to apply for a dedicated research year to be undertaken between their clinical training years. Selected fellows will receive a competitive post-baccalaureate–level salary and will engage in full-time research under the mentorship of faculty investigators. This pathway is ideal for students seeking to deepen their research experience, strengthen residency applications, and explore careers in academic medicine.

Postdoctoral Research Fellowship (Postdoctoral Track)

Graduates of medical school (MD or equivalent) who wish to pursue an additional year of focused research prior to residency or subspecialty training are eligible for appointment as postdoctoral fellows. Fellows in this track will receive salary support commensurate with institutional postdoctoral scales and will participate in rigorous investigative work with opportunities for publication, presentation, and career development.

Training and Mentorship

  • Individualized research training tailored to the fellow’s area of interest
  • Regular review of relevant literature, study design, and research techniques
  • Weekly one-on-one mentorship meetings with a primary faculty mentor
  • Opportunities to engage with additional faculty mentors across the department
  • Participation in:
    • Weekly Grand Rounds
    • Noon Conferences
    • Visiting Professor lectures
  • Interaction with residents, fellows, and other trainees in the department

Fellows will be strongly encouraged and supported to present their work at regional, national, and international meetings. A dedicated travel stipend is available to support these activities.

Scholarship Requirements

Fellows are expected to produce scholarly work during the fellowship year and

  • Submit at least one manuscript to the International Journal of Women’s Dermatology within the fellowship period
  • Attend the Women’s Dermatologic Society Forum & Industry Visioning Work Group and submit an abstract for presentation. The 2027 meeting will be held April 9–11, 2027, in Clearwater Beach, Fla.

Compensation

Medical Student Research Fellowship: $50,900 stipend, $10,000 training-related expenses

Postdoctoral Research Fellowship: $68,500 stipend, $10,000 training-related expenses

Eligibility

• Medical Student Track: Enrollment in an accredited MD or MD-equivalent program
• Postdoctoral Track: Completion of an MD or equivalent degree prior to fellowship start

How to Apply

All eligible candidates are encouraged to apply.

Applicants should submit the following as PDF files to Roberta Smith (robin.smith@yale.edu) by May 30, 2026 and put “Research Fellowship [Your Last Name] in the subject line of your email:

  • Curriculum vitae
  • Question response (see application sheet)
  • Two letter(s) of recommendation
  • Preferred research areas and/or potential mentors (if applicable)