Dermatology Residency

Our Mission, Vision, and Values

Welcome to UW Dermatology!

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Our Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to living the UW-Madison Institutional Statement on Diversity:

Diversity is a source of strength, creativity, and innovation for UW–Madison. We value the contributions of each person and respect the profound ways their identity, culture, background, experience, status, abilities, and opinion enrich the university community. We commit ourselves to the pursuit of excellence in teaching, research, outreach, and diversity as inextricably linked goals.

Our Residency Values

Knowledge
Discovery
Opportunity
Camaraderie
Humanism
Leadership

Quick Facts

  • 3-year program begins in PGY-2
  • 5 new residents accepted each year
  • Training in general dermatology as well as specialty clinics: CTCL, Melanoma and Pigmented lesions, Contact Dermatitis, Mohs Surgery, Lasers, Nail Diseases, Oncodermatology, Alopecia, Pediatric Dermatology, High Risk Skin Cancer, Complex Medical Dermatology, Dermatology Consult Service, Gastrointestinal Dermatology, Integrative Dermatology and Security (Inmate) Clinic
  • Access to research resources, including clinical-translational research programs and 5 NIH-funded basic research faculty
  • Global Health opportunities through a multitude of international electives offered by UW Health across the world

How to Apply

Applications are processed through the Electronic Residency Application System.

For the 2023 ERAS® cycle, our program will be participating in the supplemental ERAS application offered through the AAMC’s ERAS program. Applicants will be required to complete the MyERAS application, and participation in the supplemental ERAS application is optional but encouraged.

We require USMLE transcripts, 3 Letters of Recommendation, a Medical School Transcript, Dean’s Letter, and Personal Statement.

Application deadline is September 27, 2023 and interviews begin in November 2023.

See the Deadlines and Applications Instructions FAQ below for more info.

UWSMPH Department of Dermatology Objectives For Education and Learners

  1. Committed to learner’s personal growth.
  2. Committed to a supportive, safe, collaborative learning environment that reflects our values of inclusion and respect for others.
  3. Committed to positive and insightful communication to advance individual and team learning.
  4. Work to create a dynamic environment that:
    1. celebrates individual strengths
    2. teaches and models intellectual curiosity
    3. supports a meaningful role in patient care
    4. inspires pride in our department
    5. challenges individuals and teams
    6. empowers learners to pursue goals and shape change
  5. Recruit and graduate residents with high ethical standards, integrity, conscientiousness, and accountability.
  6. Graduate residents who excel in all aspects of the practice of dermatology.
  7. Teach and model ethical, safe, patient-centered, evidence-based dermatologic care for patient populations of all ages, backgrounds, and skin types in ambulatory, inpatient, and virtual health-care settings.
  8. Teach and model prioritization of patient safety, efficiency, quality and access improvement, and adapting care to the needs of the individual patient, even in the face of challenges.

Primary Contact

For questions about applications, interviews, and program administration.

Jennifer Hanser
Education Manager
Dept of Dermatology
1 S Park St, 7th Floor
Madison, WI 53715
608-287-2658
jhanser@dermatology.wisc.edu

Applicant Outreach

Contact with questions about the content or structure of our residency program.

Will Aughenbaugh, MD
Residency Program Director
waughenbaugh@dermatology.wisc.edu

Mackenzie Asel, MD
Assistant Residency Program Director
masel@dermatology.wisc.edu

Lisa Cotter, MD
Assistant Professor
lcotter@dermatology.wisc.edu

Program Overview

The University of Wisconsin-Madison Department of Dermatology is committed to providing residents with comprehensive education in a congenial and highly collegial environment so as to maximize learning and camaraderie. We emphasize graded responsibility to match learners’ needs and delegate responsibilities with appropriate challenge. University of Wisconsin Dermatology residents join an exceptional program in an exceptional University community. At Wisconsin, academic training is enhanced not only by the intellectual opportunities available throughout campus, but also through Madison’s diverse and vibrant culture.

Our Department offers an innovative curriculum in core areas of dermatology along with subspecialty electives. The courses are challenging and rewarding and take place in a variety of clinical settings including University, Veterans Administration and community hospitals, and multiple outpatient clinics.

The Department has a diverse faculty offering a variety of clinical, research and educational opportunities. General dermatology clinics plus specialty clinics in CTCL, Melanoma and Pigmented Lesions, Contact Dermatitis, Mohs Surgery, Lasers, Nail Diseases, Oncodermatology, Alopecia, Pediatric Dermatology, High Risk Skin Cancer, Complex Medical Dermatology, Dermatology Consult Service, Gastrointestinal Dermatology, Integrative Dermatology, and Security (Inmate) Clinic complement the research areas of five NIH funded faculty.

The three year program in General Dermatology begins at the PGY-2 level. This residency provides trainees with a broad educational experience in clinical, surgical, dermatopathology and research areas. Successful graduates of this program are strongly encouraged to take advantage of the Dermatology Scholars Program.

Program Highlights

Recent Fellowship Placements

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Fellowship Placements 2017 - 2024

George Zakhem, MD (2023-2024)

University of Pennsylvania Dermatopathology Fellowship, Aman Prasad (2022-2023)

University of Wisconsin Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship, Annika Weinhammer (2022-2023)

University of Wisconsin Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship, Kyle Rudningen (2021-2022)

UCSF Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship, Brittany Buhalog (2019-2020)

University of Pennsylvania Medical Dermatology Fellowship, Bridget Shields (2019-2020)

University of Pennsylvania Dermatopathology Fellowship, Susan Pei (2019-2020)

Houston Methodist Hospital Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Fellowship, David Wright (2017-2018)

Additional Highlights

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Faculty Professional Leadership

International

International Society of Dermatology

  • George Reizner, MD: President; Treasurer General (2009-2017), Contract Negotiation Committee Chair

Federation for International Dermatological Education

  • George Reizner, MD: Board of Directors (2009-2017)

National

American Academy of Dermatology (AAD)

  • Daniel Bennett, MD: Assistant Secretary-Treasurer
  • Justin Endo, MD: Co-chair/Co-founder, Geriatric Dermatology Expert Resource Group
  • Molly Hinshaw, MD: Chair, State Society Relations Committee; Chair, Dermpath Rapid Response Committee
  • Margo Reeder, MD: Chair, MVP Committee (2022- Present), Chair, Performance Measurement Committee (2020-22), Member, Performance Measurement Committee (2016-20)
  • George Reizner, MD: Chair, Deputy Chair (2018-2020), Investment Committee
  • Gloria Xu, MD, PhD: Diversity Task Force

American Academy of Dermatology Quality Innovation Center

  • Margo Reeder, MD: Physician Lead (2019-20)

American College of Mohs Surgery

  • Juliet Aylward, MD: Diagnostic Quality Control & Teaching Library Committee
  • Gloria Xu, MD, PhD: Board Certification Task Force

American Contact Dermatitis Society

  • Margo Reeder, MD: Program Director, Contact Allergy Management (2019-Present), Board Member (2016-19)

American Society of Dermatopathology

  • Molly Hinshaw, MD: Chair, Finance Committee

Childhood Arthritis & Rheumatology Research Alliance

  • Lisa Arkin, MD: Co-Chair, SLE Dermatology

Council for Nail Disorders

  • Molly Hinshaw, MD: Board of Trustees (elected)

National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN)

  • Gloria Xu, MD, PhD: Non-Melanoma Skin Cancer Guideline Panel

Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance (PeDRA)

  • Lisa Arkin, MD: Chair, Early Investigator’s Committee; Executive Committee
  • Beth Drolet, MD: Founding Member; Chair, Nominations Committee; Research Vision and Strategy Task Force

PHACE Syndrome Community

  • Beth Drolet, MD: Chairman, Medical Advisory Board

Society for Investigative Dermatology (SID)

  • Daniel Bennett, MD: Delegate to the AMA House of Delegates

Society for Pediatric Dermatology

  • Beth Drolet, MD: President (2014-2019); Vice President of Research (2012-2014); Mentorship Task Force

Women’s Dermatological Society

  • Molly Hinshaw, MD: President

Regional & Local

Autoimmune Skin Disease Clinic, UW Health/American Family Children’s Hospital

  • Lisa Arkin, MD: Co-Director

Birthmarks and Vascular Anomalies Clinic, UW Health/American Family Children’s Hospital

  • Lisa Arkin, MD: Co-Director

UW Carbone Comprehensive Cancer Center (UW CCC)

  • Nihal Ahmad, PhD: Program Co-Leader, Cancer Prevention and Control Program

UW Hospitals & Clinics Medical Board

  • Molly Hinshaw, MD: At-large member

UW Health Laser Safety Committee

  • Lisa Arkin: Chair

Faculty Editors of Clinical & Scientific Journals

Asia-Pacific Journal of Science and Technology

  • Justin Endo, MD: Editorial Board

Biomedicine Hub

  • Nihal Ahmad, MD: Editorial Board

Clinical Medicine Insights: Urology

  • Nihal Ahmad, MD: Editorial Board

Dermatologic Surgery

  • Gloria Xu, MD, PhD: Contributing Editor

Frontiers in Oncology

  • Nihal Ahmad, PhD: Associate Editor

International Journal of Dermatology

  • George Reizner, MD: Editorial Board (2001-2017), Associate Editor (2002-2012)

Journal of Clinical and Investigative Dermatology

  • Nihal Ahmad, MD: Editorial Board

JAMA Dermatology

  • Gloria Xu, MD, PhD: Reviewer

JAAD

  • Gloria Xu, MD, PhD: Reviewer

Journal of Cutaneous Pathology

  • Daniel D. Bennett, MD: Editorial Board

Journal of Investigative Dermatology

  • Vijay Setaluri, PhD: Section Editor & Editorial Consultant (past)

Journal of Oncology

  • Nihal Ahmad, PhD: Associate Editor

Journal of Pediatric Dermatology

  • Beth Drolet, MD: Editorial Board

Life Sciences

  • Nihal Ahmad, MD: Editorial Board

Photochemistry and Photobiology

  • Nihal Ahmad, PhD: Associate Editor

Pigment Cell & Melanoma Research

  • Vijay Setaluri, PhD: Editor-in-Chief

Skin Pharmacology and Physiology

  • Nihal Ahmad, MD: Editorial Board

Toxicology and Applied Pharmacology

  • Nihal Ahmad, PhD: Associate Editor

Faculty Publications: Recent Editions of Textbooks

Names of faculty are in bold; names of authors who were trainees under our faculty at time of research or writing are underlined.

Larocca C, Asel M and Lacouture ME. Photosensitivity and photoreactions. In: Fabbrocini G, Lacouture M, Tosti A, editors. Dermatologic Reactions to Cancer Therapies. 1st ed. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press.

Shields BE, Forrestel A, Rosenbach M. (2020). Erythema Nodosum. In Lebwohl(Ed), Treatment of Skin Disease 6th Edition.

Shields BE, Rosenbach M. (2020). Granuloma Annulare. In Lebwohl(Ed), Treatment of Skin Disease 6th Edition.

Shields BE, Zone JJ. (2020). Dermatitis Herpetiformis. In Lebwohl(Ed), Treatment of Skin Disease 6th Edition.

Wood GS. Cutaneous T-Cell Lymphomas. In: Conn’s Current Therapy, 2020 Ed., Bope ET et al. (eds.), Philadelphia, PA, Elsevier Saunders.

Xu YG, Aylward J, Swanson A, Spiegelman V, Vanness E, Teng J, Wood GS: Nonmelanoma Skin Cancers: Basal Cell and Squamous Cell Carcinomas. In: Clinical Oncology 6th Ed. MD Abeloff et al. (eds.), Philadelphia, PA. Elsevier Science (USA), 2019.

Hinshaw MA, Garrity K, Richert B. (2018). Nail Surgery. In: Albertini J, Bordeaux J, Dzubow LM, Lawrence N, Miller SJ (Eds). Dermatologic Surgery pp 496-511. McGraw Hill.

Hinshaw MA. (2018). Non-melanocytic Pigmentary Disorders of the Nail Unit. In: Scher R, Daniel R, Jellinek N, Rubin A (Eds). Nails: Diagnosis, Management, Surgery pp 303-317. Springer.

Hinshaw MA, Lawrence S. Autoimmune Connective Tissue Diseases. In: Conn’s Current Therapy. Bope, Kellerman, and Rakel (Eds). Elsevier 2018.

Hinshaw MA, Lawrence S. Vasculitis. In: Conn’s Current Therapy. Bope, Kellerman, and Rakel (Eds). Elsevier 2018.

Wood GS, Reizner GT: Other papulosquamous disorders. In: Dermatology. 5th Ed. JL Bolognia, JL et al (eds), Elsevier Saunders, 2018.

Wood GS, Schieke S: Parapsoriasis and Pityriasis Lichenoides. In: Fitzpatrick’s Dermatology in General Medicine, 9th Ed. K. Wolff, L.A. Goldsmith, S.I. Katz, B. Gilchrest, A.S. Paller, D.J. Leffell (eds), New York, NY, McGraw-Hill, 2018.

Faculty Publications: Journal Articles

Names of faculty are in bold; names of authors who were trainees under our faculty at time of research or writing are underlined.

Adequacy of dermatology and ob-gyn graduate medical education for inflammatory vulvovaginal skin disease: A nationwide needs assessment survey. Comstock JR, Endo JO, Kornik RI. Int J Womens Dermatol. (accepted)

Shields BE, Richardson C, Arkin L, Kornik R. “Vulvar Crohn Disease: Diagnostic Challenges and Approach to Therapy.” Int J Women’s Derm. (accepted for publication 2020, May.)

Shields BE, Gelfand JM, Allen-Taylor L, Rosenbach M. “Dermatitis Herpetiformis within the iCureCeliac® Patient-Powered Research Network: Patient Characteristics and Dietary Counseling.” JAMA Dermatology, 2020, Oct; 8.

Alawi F, Shields BE, Omolehinwa T, Rosenbach M. “Oral Granulomatous Disease.” Dermatol Clin; 2020, Oct; 1.

Ablative fractional laser treatment of hypertrophic burn and traumatic scars: a systematic review of the literature. Brittany Buhalog, Farah Moustafa, Lisa Arkin, Kachiu Lee, Katherine Siwy, Matthias Donelan, C Scott Hultman, Peter R Shumaker. Arch Dermatol Res 2020 Sep 14. doi: 10.1007/s00403-020-02135-5. Online ahead of print.

Agni M, Raven ML, Bowen RC, Laver NV, Chevez-Barrios P, Milman T, Eberhart CG, Couch S, Bennett DD, Albert DM, Hogan N, Phelps PO, Stiefel H, Mancera N, Hyrcza M, Wang A, Steele EA, Campbell AA, Potter HD, Lucarelli MJ. An Update on Endocrine Mucin-producing Sweat Gland Carcinoma: Clinicopathologic Study of 63 Cases and Comparative Analysis. American Journal of Surgical Pathology 2020 Aug;44(8):1005-1016.

Reza N, Hoffman-Andrews L, Chowns JL, Marzolf A, Shields BE, Owes AT. “Left-Dominant Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy, Palmoplantar Keratoderma, and Curly Hair Associated with a Rare Autosomal Dominant Truncating Variant in Desmoplakin.” Circulation: Genomic and Precision Medicine; 2020, Aug; 13.

Hoffman M, Micheletti RG, Shields BE. “Nutritional Dermatoses for the Hospitalized Patient.” Cutis; 2020, June.

Management of infantile hemangiomas during the COVID pandemic. Frieden IJ, Püttgen KB, Drolet BA, Hemangioma Investigator Group, et al. Pediatr Dermatol. 2020 May;37(3):412-418. doi: 10.1111/pde.14196. Epub 2020 May 16.

Fischer AH, Pei S, Shields BE, Rosenbach M, Rubin AI. “Dermatomal Necrotizing Infundibular Crystalline Folliculitis following Herpes Zoster.” J Cutan Pathol; 2020, May; 20.

Shields BE, Latour E, Fett NM. “Characteristics of patients with Celiac Disease and Connective Tissue Disease Overlap.” Int J Dermatol; 2020, Apr; 25.

Limited Utility of Repeated Vital Sign Monitoring During Initiation of Oral Propranolol for Complicated Infantile Hemangioma. Püttgen KB, Hansen LM, Lauren C, Stefanko N, Mathes E, Olsen GM, Tollefson MM, Adams D, Baselga E, Chamlin S, Corey K, Frascari FF, Frieden IJ, Galligan ER, Gupta D, Haggstrom A, Horii K, Hornik CP, Klajn J, Liberman L, Mancini A, Mannschreck D, McGinness A, McCuaig C, Newell B, Nguyen H, Nopper A, Oyesanya T, Powell J, Reynolds M, Rios M, Siegel DH, Ward K, Garzon MC, Frommelt P, Drolet BA. Am Acad Dermatol. 2020 Apr 11:S0190-9622(20)30553-3. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2020.04.013. Online ahead of print.

Nail Disorders in Women. Reinecke J, Hinshaw MA. Int J Women’s Dermatol 2020 Mar. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijwd.2020.01.006

Evaluating the Safety of Oral Propranolol Therapy in Patients With PHACE Syndrome. Olsen GM, Hansen LM, Stefanko NS, Mathes E, Puttgen KB, Tollefson MM, Lauren C, Mancini AJ, McCuaig CC, Frieden IJ, Adams D, Baselga E, Chamlin S, Gupta D, Frommelt P, Garzon MC, Horii K, Klajn J, Maheshwari M, Newell B, Nguyen HL, Nopper A, Powell J, Siegel DH, Drolet BA. JAMA Dermatol. 2020 Feb 1;156(2):186-190. doi: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2019.3839.

Hamartomas and midline anomalies in association with infantile hemangiomas, PHACE, and LUMBAR syndromes. Stefanko NS, Davies OMT, Beato MJ, Blei F, Drolet BA, Fairley J, Frieden IJ, Galligan ER, Goddard D, Howard R, Husain S, Lauren CT, Lopez-Gutierrez JC, MacArthur C, Metry DW, Morel KD, Niedt GW, Garzon MC, Sokumbi O, Siegel DH. Pediatr Dermatol. 2020 Jan;37(1):78-85. doi: 10.1111/pde.14006. Epub 2019 Oct 20.

Weinhammer A, Shields BE, Keenan TD. “Intralesional steroid induced hypopigmentation and atrophy: a rare adverse event.” Dermatol Online J; 2020, Jan.

Number of skin biopsies needed per malignancy: comparing the use of skin biopsies among dermatologists and non-dermatologist clinicians. Ashley Privalle A, Havighurst T, Kim K, Bennett DD, Xu YG. J Am Acad Dermatol 2020 Jan;82(1):110-116. doi: 10.1016/j.jaad.2019.08.012. Epub 2019 Aug 10. PMID: 31408683.

Zhao L, Wood G. Mechanisms by which combined inhibition of BET and HDAC inhibits proliferation and induces apoptosis in CTCL. J Invest Dermatol 140: S78, 2020.

Nihal M, Wood G. Mechanisms governing epigenetic regulation of apoptosis in CTCL: Implications for therapy with methotrexate, JAK inhibitors, and resveratrol. J Invest Dermatol 140: S32, 2020.

Sebaceous Carcinoma: Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines. Owen JL, Kibbi N, Worley B, … Xu YG…Alam M. Lancet Oncol. 2019 Dec;20(12):e699-e714. doi: 10.1016/S1470-2045(19)30673-4. Review. PMID: 31797796.

Outcomes of Malignant Melanoma in Kidney Transplant Recipients. Di Bartolomeo S, Rolak S, Joachim E, Xu YG, Astor BC, Parajuli S. Clin Nephrol. 2019 Dec;92(6):293-301. doi: 10.5414/CN109881. PMID: 31549628.

Ryan MP, Bennett DD, Goodwin BP, Kelly BC. Basomelanocytic Neoplasms: A Report of Two Similar Tumors with Divergent Treatments. American Journal of Dermatopathology 2019 Oct 29 [Epub ahead of print]

Nodal Staging of High Risk Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma. Fox M, Brown M, Golda N, Goldberg D, Miller, Pugliano-Mauro M, Schmults D, Shin T, Stasko T, Xu YG, MD, Nehal K (High Risk Squamous Cell Carcinoma Workgroup, Micrographic Surgery and Dermatologic Oncology Section of the Association of Professors of Dermatology). J Am Acad Dermatol. 2019 Aug;81(2):548-557.PMID: 30227190.

Evidence-Based Clinical Practice Guidelines for Microcystic Adnexal Carcinoma: Informed by a Systematic Review. Worley B, Owen JL, … Xu YG…Alam M. JAMA Dermatol. 2019 Jul 3. doi: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2019.1251. PMID: 31268498.

Albrecht J, Adamson AS, Barbieri J, Bennett DD, Kiracofe EA, Kourosh AS, Leslie KS, Merola JF, Nguyen J, Siegfried E, Strickland N, Olbricht S, Asgari MM, AADA Task Force on Drug Pricing and Transparency. Lack of an FDA indication should not limit access to appropriate treatment. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology 80:577-578, 2019.

Extramammary Paget’s Disease. Asel M and LeBoeuf NR. Hematol Oncol N Am 2019;33:73-85.

Muir-Torre Syndrome – The importance of a detailed family history. Burris CK, Rodriguez ME, Raven ML, Reddy DN, Xu YG, Wiggs JL, Potter HD, Albert DM. Case Rep Ophthalmol 2019;10:180–185. https://doi.org/10.1159/000500662.

Craddock LN, Inda JJ, Longley BJ, Wood GS. EBV+ mucocutaneous ulcers in the setting of pre-existing cutaneous T-cell lymphoproliferative disorders: A report of 2 cases. JAAD Case Reports 5:78-81, 2019.

Brachyonychia in a patient with Bardet-Biedl syndrome: case report and review of this rare syndrome. Detty SQ, Hinshaw MA, Tuite MJ, Means AD. JAAD Case Rep. 2019;5(8):672-4.

Karim AS, Tan A, Ocotl E, Bennett DD, Wang Z, Kendziorski C, Gibson ALF. Discordance between histologic and visual assessment of tissue viability in excised burn wound tissue. Wound Repair and Regeneration 27:150-161, 2019.

Clinical imaging and pathologic features of conditions with combined esophageal and cutaneous manifestations. Lee MH, Lubner MG, Peebles JK, Hinshaw MA, et al. Radiographics 2019;39(5):1411-34.

McCaughey CD, Amarnani A, Longley BJ, Bennett DD, Wood GS. Erythema gyratum repens-like eruption in Sezary syndrome: evidence for a role of a dermatophyte. Cutis 103:357-360, 2019.

Mafee M, Bennett DD, Swanson AM. Incidental Merkel Cell Carcinoma Encountered During Mohs Surgery. Dermatologic Surgery 45:604-606, 2019.

Palisaded neutrophilic granulomatous dermatitis leading to diagnosis of Hodgkin lymphoma: report of rare case and literature review of paraneoplastic granulomatous dermatitides. Pei S, Hinshaw M. Am J Dermatopathol 2019;41(11):835-45.

Aging and the treatment of basal cell carcinoma. Sreekantaswamy S, Endo J, Chen A, Butler D, Morrison L, Linos E. Clin Dermatol. 2019;37(4):373-378.

Zhao L, Ohkovat J-P, Hong EK, Kim YH, Wood GS. Preclinical studies support combined inhibition of BET family proteins and histone deacetylases as epigenetic therapy for cutaneous T-cell lymphoma. Neoplasia 21: 82-92, 2019.

Geriatrics Curriculum Needs Assessment for Dermatology Residency Programs. Endo J, Awe A, Reddy S, Hirshfield LE, Kamin C, Lineberry M. J Grad Med Educ. 2018 Dec;10(6):657-664.

Targeting insulin-like growth factor 2 mRNA-binding protein 1 (IGF2BP1) in metastatic melanoma to increase efficacy of BRAFV600E inhibitors. Kim T, Havighurst T, Kim K, Albertini M, Xu YG*, Spiegelman VS*. Molecular carcinogenesis, 2018 Jan 25. doi: 10.1002/mc.22786. (*: Senior co-authors). PubMed PMID: 29369405

Rush PS, Rosenbaum JN, Roy M, Baus RM, Bennett DD, Lloyd RV. Insulinoma-associated 1: A novel nuclear marker in Merkel cell carcinoma (cutaneous neuroendocrine carcinoma). Journal of Cutaneous Pathology 45:129-135, 2018.

Program Details

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Deadlines and Application Instructions FAQ

In this section: Quick answers to common questions on application and interview process, including deadlines

  1. Q. What are the application requirements?
    A. Only complete applications will be reviewed
    A complete application includes:
    * Common Application Form
    * USMLE transcripts
    * 3 Letters of Recommendation, with at least one from a supervising Dermatologist
    * Medical School Transcript
    * Dean’s Letter
    * Personal Statement
    A. Applicants will be required to complete the MyERAS application
  2. Q. What is the application deadline?
    A. September 27, 2023
  3. Q. When will the program extend invitations to interview?
    A. Virtual interviews will be scheduled beginning in November 2023
  4. Q. When will the program interview candidates?
    A. Virtual interviews will be conducted between November and December 2023
  5. Q. How many positions are there to fill?
    A. 5 Advanced Dermatology
  6. Q. Does this program offer transitional year?
    A. No
  7. Q. Does the program accept international medical graduates?
    A. Yes
  8. Q. What type of visa does the program sponsor?
    A. J-1 only
  9. Q. Is there a maximum number of letters of recommendations?
    A. No more than 4, please.

Clinical Rotations and Program Structure

In this section: A description of the structure and expectations of the residency program

The first year of residency (PGY2) provides a strong foundation in general dermatology. Residents at this stage are introduced to common dermatologic conditions and with an emphasis on appropriate treatment and patient communication. PGY-2 residents learn basic procedural skills that are built upon over the following two years.

The second year of residency (PGY3) introduces the resident to advanced specialty rotations in order to manage increasingly complex medical dermatologic problems. Rotations in dermatopathology promote advanced histologic interpretation and clinical pathologic correlation. The dermatologic surgery rotation enhances surgical skills as residents learn to perform Mohs micrographic surgery and advanced reconstructive repairs. Subspecialty dermatology rotations concentrate exposure to patients with complex medical dermatologic conditions. The consult rotation covers inpatient services at three hospitals, and is a highly educational rotation.

The third year of residency (PGY4) is designed for residents to reinforce what was learned in the first two years of training and refine their individual practice style. Residents spend 3 months at the VA Hospital in their senior year, where they assume responsibility for patient care decisions. This leadership role helps prepare residents for independent practice.

Continuity Clinics are held two half-days per week as a PGY2 and three half-days per week in PGY3 and PGY4  years. Residents assume full responsibility for patient care under the supervision of an attending physician.

Rotations are divided into 4 week blocks. The table below lists the number of each clinical assignments for each PGY year:

PGY2 PGY3 PGY4
General Dermatology – UW 3 1 1
General Dermatology – VA 6 0 3
Pediatric Dermatology 1 1 1
Subspecialty Dermatology 2 2 1
Dermatologic Surgery 0 1 1
Dermatopathology 0 1 1
Consults 0 2 1
Medicine Specialty rotation 0 1 0
Float 0 2 1
Electives 0 1 2

Subspecialty Clinics are offered in the following areas:

  • Contact Dermatitis
  • Cutaneous Lymphoma
  • Gastrointestinal-related Dermatology
  • High Risk Skin Cancer
  • Integrative Medicine
  • Melanoma and Pigmented Lesions
  • Nail Diseases
  • Pediatric Dermatology
  • Teledermatology
  • Oncodermatology
  • Alopecia

The Medicine Specialty rotation allows residents to work with our esteemed colleagues in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics. This clinic is required as a PGY3 and may be repeated during an elective rotation. The following clinics are represented:

  • Oncology – Melanoma Clinic
  • Adult Rheumatology
  • Pediatric Rheumatology
  • Adult Allergy
  • Pediatric Allergy

Unique Program Attributes

Inmate Clinic – The Inmate Clinic is held at the University of Wisconsin Hospital once monthly. This is a high yield clinic where many patients have access to health care for the first time. The clinic focuses on complex medical dermatology and patient education.

Global Health opportunities – UW Health offers a multitude of international electives across the world.

Scholars Program

In this section: Information on our optional additional year to study in a focused area

The Dermatology Scholars Program (DSP) is an optional track for residents who are interested in developing a focused area of expertise. Graduates from this program will be well positioned to be a local expert as they begin their practice in an academic or private practice setting.

DSP scholars may take advantage of local, regional, national or international resources. Participants may choose to focus on a clinical subspecialty, translational research or basic science research within the UW Health system. Alternatively, scholars may elect to pursue an advanced degree including Master of Public Health or Master of Business Administration. All participants will be partnered with a mentor to guide their professional development. Past scholars have successfully networked with advisors from outside the University of Wisconsin to enhance their education.

Dermatology Scholars will be appointed Clinical Instructor in the Department of Dermatology for this 1 year program. Clinical responsibilities include a minimum of two half-day clinics. The remainder of the time will be spent pursuing research in an area of focus.

Our Faculty Scholars include Dr. Apple Bodemer and Dr. Margo Reeder

Recent Graduates (2021-2024)

2024
Kristen Chen –
Jeffery Hu –
Allison Miller – UW Dermatology, WI
Traci Pawlitschek –
Kimberly Sable –

2023
Jeanette Comstock – UW Dermatology, WI
Melissa Dodds –
Connie Wang – UW Dermatology, WI

2022 Graduates
Lisa Cotter – UW Dermatology, WI
Sarah Korger – UW Dermatology, WI
Aman Prasad – Dermatopathology fellowship in Philadelphia, PA
Annika Weinhammer – Mohs fellowship in Madison, WI

2021
Nadine Shabeeb – private practice in Madison, WI
Kyle Rudningen – Mohs fellowship in Madison, WI
Joshua Eickstaedt – Mohs fellowship in Birmingham, AL
Brooke Rosenbaum – private practice in Las Vegas, NV

Former Residents

2020
Hagger Ali – private practice in New Hampshire
Shannon Detty – private practice in Denver, CO
Daniel Krakora – private practice in Minnesota
Nicholas Zajdel – private practice in Milwaukee, WI

2019
Brittany Buhalog – private practice in Madison, Wi
Michael Christopher – private practice in Arizona
Susan Pei – Dermatopathology Fellowship at The University of Pennsylvania
Bridget Shields – faculty appointment at UW Dermatology

2018
Lauren Brin Hermans – private practice in Pierre, South Dakota
Katherine Bonnichsen – private practice in St. Paul, MN
Noor Tazudeen – private practice in Chicago, IL

2017
Lauren Craddock –private practice in Monroe, WI
Kate Garrity – private practice in Wisconsin
Lydia Kim – private practice in California
J. Klint Peebles – private practice in Washington, DC
David Wright – private practice Mohs Surgery in Irving, TX

2016
Tom Keenan – faculty appointment at UW Dermatology
Mandi Bietz – private practice in South Dakota
Kristin Eastman – private practice in Alaska
Abby Taub – private practice in Wisconsin

2015
Joanna McGetrick – private practice in Florida
Kirstin Altman – faculty appointment at Baylor Scott and White in Texas
Lydia Turnbull – private practice in Minnesota

2014 Graduates
Sara Fitz – private practice in Iowa
Patrick Kehoe – private practice in Wisconsin
Cort McCaughey – private practice in Utah

2013
Brian Kleker – private practice in California
Margo Reeder – faculty appointment at UW Dermatology
Sherry Youssef – private practice in California

2012 Graduates
Jessica Saucier – faculty appointment at Baylor University
Rachel Kornik- faculty appointment at UW Dermatology
Lisa Muchard – practice in Wisconsin

2011 Graduates
Anna Haemel – faculty appointment at UCSF
Andy Swanson – faculty appointment at UW Dermatology
David Myers – private practice Utah

2010 Graduates
Margaret Collins – private practice in Minnesota
Phil Hsu – private practice in California
Tasneem Poonawalla – private practice in Wisconsin
Melissa Stenstrom – private practice in Illinois

2009 Graduates
Chethana Gottam – private practice in Illinois
Rosemarie Liu – private practice in Virginia
Nicole Fett – faculty appointment at Oregon Health & Science University

2008 Graduates
Amber Atwater – faculty appointment at Duke University Medical Center Med/Derm
Lindsey Bennett – private practice in California

Current Residents

3rd Year Dermatology Residents

Christy Behnam, MD

Hometown: Al-Hasakah, Syria & Chicago, IL
Undergraduate: Northeastern Illinois University – Chicago, IL
Medical School: University of Illinois College of Medicine at Rockford – Rockford, IL
Internship: Grand Strand Medical Center – Myrtle Beach, SC

What are some of your favorite activities to do in the Madison area?

There are lots of fun things to do in Madison! A few of my favorite activities so far are watching the sunrise over lake Monona and sunset over Lake Mendota, kayaking and paddle boarding, going on picnics by the lakes, and tasting an endless supply of delicious cheeses at the farmer’s market. I’m excited to continue to explore what this beautiful and vibrant city has to offer!

List one interesting fact about yourself that many of your co-workers may not know about you.

I can sing in languages I don’t speak!

Franchesca Choi, RPh MD

Hometown: Manila, Philippines and Tainan, Taiwan
Undergraduate: University of the Philippines – Manila
Medical School: Kaohsiung Medical University
Internship: MetroWest Medical Center (Tufts University)

What are some of your favorite activities to do in the Madison area?

Watching sunset at the Memorial Union Terrace, or while paddleboating/boarding at one of the lakes!

What do you like best about doing your dermatology training at the University of Wisconsin?

Great guidance from seniors for continuity clinics, excision clinics, calls and more. Very knowledgeable faculty that are leaders in their fields but at the same time very approachable. Everybody in the department is committed to the well-being and success of the residents, which brings a family kind of vibe for the entire department. Definitely a wonderful program!!

Maija Johansen, MD

Hometown: Edina, MN
Undergraduate: St. Olaf College
Med school: Emory University School of Medicine
Internship: Aurora St. Luke’s Hospital

Why did you select the UW Residency program for your training?

You can’t beat UW’s combination of expert faculty, well-rounded training, and genuine comradery. Through the interview process, it was clear how much the faculty and residents loved working with one another, and I knew I would feel at home here. Plus, Madison is awesome!

What do you like to do outside of work?

I thrive off a good routine. I like to go to bed early, sit with a cup of coffee and a book and watch the sunrise, spend time with my husband Jake and friends, and push myself a little too hard in endurance sports. I also enjoy spending time outside, whether by running, skiing, hiking, walking, or just sitting at the terrace with friends!

Sultan Qiblawi, MD

Hometown: Clinton Township, MI
Undergraduate: Michigan State University
Med School: Michigan State University College of Human Medicine
Internship: Scripps Mercy Hospital, San Diego

Why did you select UW Residency program for your training?

I really loved the faculty when interviewing here and wanted to train at an academic facility in the Midwest that was able to see a wide array of dermatological conditions.

What do you like to do outside of work?

Play basketball, be near the water, spend time outdoors with friends and family

Jennifer Tran, MD

Hometown: Dallas, TX
Undergraduate: University of Virginia
Medical School: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
Internship: Gundersen Health Transitional Year, La Crosse, WI

Why did you select the University of Wisconsin Dermatology Residency for your training?

The UW Dermatology department is truly like a family. As a medical student and research fellow in the dermatology department, I saw firsthand how tightknit and supportive the residents were of each other and the collaborative environment of the entire department. There was this incredible family feel and sense of comradery that just wasn’t the same anywhere else. As a family-oriented person, it was important for me to go to a program where I knew I would be supported both professionally and personally. It was important that I had attendings who encouraged and pushed me to become the best physician/physician-researcher that I could be for my current and future patients. We get the opportunity to learn from ABSOLUTELY BRILLIANT attendings and get well-rounded training in general, pediatric, complex, surgical and various subspecialities in derm. The incredibly strong commitment to teaching and mentorship here is invaluable. The great thing about UW is that the opportunities are endless, and you are encouraged to mold your training to fit your future career goals. I feel incredibly lucky to be a part this special UW derm family and would not have it any other way!

What do you enjoy about living in Madison?

I am originally from Dallas, TX and never thought I’d go to Wisconsin for medical school! Now, I have put down roots here with my husband and call Madison home. You get the perks of a “big city” without traffic congestion and are surrounded by super nice people – midwestern nice is a thing! We enjoy trying out the many delicious restaurants and going to events around the Capital Square including the local Farmer’s Market and Art Fair on the Square. We love that Madison is well-located for short day trips to go snowboarding (how we enjoy the cold and long winters) at Tyrol Basin or Cascade Mountain, hiking at Devil’s Lake in the summer/fall, or visit our extended family in Milwaukee and Chicago!

2nd Year Dermatology Residents

Sarah Ibrahim, MD

Hometown: Chicago
Undergraduate: Washington University in St. Louis
Medical School: Rush University
Internship: Ascension St. Joseph Hospital

Why did you select the University of Wisconsin Dermatology Residency for your training?

In choosing a residency, I wanted a program that would motivate me to be the best clinician and leader in dermatology, and yet accomplish that in a culture of camaraderie and mentorship. During my interview, I found that UW had perfected that balance. The mentors and colleagues I am surrounded by are some of the most accomplished leaders in dermatology, and earnestly care about providing residents with the best education. I am so happy to have matched at this program!

What do you enjoy about living in Madison?

Madison has some of the most beautiful sunsets! The lakes are gorgeous and make being outdoors so easy.

John Moon, MD

Hometown: New York City
Undergraduate: Hunter College
Medical School: University of Cincinnati College of Medicine
Internship: Northwell Northshore/Long Island Jewish

What do you like best about doing your dermatology training at the University of Wisconsin?

Supportive and knowledgeable co-workers and mentors, diverse and abundant experiences and opportunities

What are some of your favorite activities to do in the Madison area?

Running next to the lakes

David Pontes, MD

Hometown: Madison, Wisconsin

Undergraduate: University of Wisconsin-Madison

Medical School: University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine

Internship: University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine Northshore University Health System

What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?

I enjoy staying active outside of work, which is quite easy to do in Madison, Wisconsin. There are ample opportunities to engage in a variety of sports, from pick-up basketball to pickleball, at numerous parks and gyms across Madison. Additionally, the city’s diverse culinary scene has inspired my interest in cooking, making it another enjoyable hobby.

What are some of your favorite activities to do in the Madison area?

Madison offers a wide range of enjoyable activities for both residents and visitors, which is one of the reasons I appreciate living here so much. I particularly love the numerous events that Madison hosts, including, but not limited to, the Farmer’s Markets and various music festivals such as Dane Dances, La Fete de Marquette, Concerts on the Square, and more. Exploring the beautiful UW campus, visiting the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, and taking my dog for long walks in the city’s many dog parks are other activities I relish.

Eva Shelton, MD

Hometown: Midwest
Undergraduate: University of Wisconsin, Madison, WI
Medical School: University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
Internship: Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston, MA

What do you like best about doing your dermatology training at the University of Wisconsin?

I was immediately drawn to the warmth and sense of community at UW on interview day. The faculty here are committed to resident education and dedicated to patient care. They are wonderful role models who are humble, kind, patient, and are also generous with their knowledge and time when it comes to teaching. My fellow residents are similarly amazing human beings who have accomplished so much and have so much to offer. I feel so grateful to be able to come into work every day to be surrounded by such a wonderful team and an inviting atmosphere.

What are some of your favorite activities to do in the Madison area?

Some of my favorite things to do in Madison include spending time with my pup exploring dog parks in the area, which are exceptionally large compared to anything I’ve ever seen before! We have been so impressed by the scattered areas of protected land which are also fenced in for off leash walks/hikes. I also enjoy soaking in the sunsets on the terrace, roaming around the farmer’s market, discovering new hidden gems around the city that continue to surprise me!

Amaraoma Ugoji, MD

Hometown: Imo State, Nigeria

Undergraduate: The University of Texas at Arlington

Medical School: Tulane University School of Medicine

Internship: Internal Medicine, Tulane University School of Medicine

List one interesting fact about yourself that many of your co-workers may not know about you.

I know Wisconsin is America’s DairyLand, but unfortunately, I do not like cheese.

Why did you select the University of Wisconsin Dermatology Residency for your training?

The faculty and residents seemed very supportive and happy during my interview. I also like that there are people who are well versed in different areas of dermatology and beyond. Having them as a resource helps expose trainees to multiple avenues that would eventually make for a satisfactory career.

1st Year Dermatology Residents

Yasmine Abushukur, MD

Hometown: Rochester, MI
Undergraduate: University of Michigan
Medical School: Oakland University William Beaumont SOM
Internship: University Hospitals (Cleveland)

What do you enjoy about living in Madison?

My favorite part about Madison is exploring the city with my co-residents. There’s always something fun to do outdoors, whether it’s catching a live concert, browsing the farmers markets, or biking around town!

What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?

My favorite activities outside of work are trying out different workout classes, exploring new restaurants, and spending time with family, friends, and my adorable puppy.

Swati Garg, MD

Hometown: Portland, OR
Undergraduate: Northwestern University
Medical School: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Internship: Ascension St. Joseph Hospital

What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?

I love to cook and try new recipes! I’m a vegetarian so I am always looking for creative ways to incorporate vegetables into dishes or come up with meat substitutes. I am an amateur runner but love to go for runs along the water after work. I’ve done one half marathon before and hope to do another in Madison! And my most favorite activity is spending quality time with my friends and family 🙂

Why did you select the University of Wisconsin Dermatology Residency for your training?

On my interview day I instantly felt that UW Derm was a perfect fit for me! I loved the wide breadth of dermatology exposure while also getting the depth of training from faculty with specialized interests. I have a strong interest in medical education and was excited to see the ample opportunities for residents to be involved with med-ed! Overall the culture of the program is very supportive and residents have the autonomy to forge their path and explore their interests throughout training. Bonus: My fiancé and I couples matched dermatology and urology at UW!

Grace McKay, MD

Hometown: Atlanta, GA
Undergraduate: University of Wisconsin-Madison
Medical School: University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health
Internship: Pennsylvania Hospital

What do you enjoy about living in Madison?

I’ve lived off and on in Madison for the last 15 years, and it’s one of my favorite places on earth. After having lived in several big cities, I love that Madison has the appeals of big cities without having to wait in traffic for >1h to get somewhere on a Friday night! It also really feels like a community with the university and the capitol being here even as Madison continues to grow in population every year. My husband and I are also big sports fans and love being able to go to all of the Badger games as well as the Forward Madison games, which is the pro men’s soccer team here!

What do you like best about doing your dermatology training at the University of Wisconsin?

I love the camaraderie of the residency class and of the department. Everyone is really willing to lend a helping hand whenever you need one, and our residency group chat is always active with everything from questions about different cutaneous pathologies to just asking if anyone wants to hang out that night. We all really like each other, which is great! The attendings are also very approachable and really focused on resident learning. They are constantly thinking about educational points and other learning opportunities for the residents.

Malina Peterson, MD

Hometown: Sartell, Minnesota
Undergraduate: University of Minnesota
Medical School: University of Minnesota
Internship: Gundersen Health

What do you enjoy about living in Madison?

My fiancé and I love the green spaces of Madison! There are innumerable parks and walking/biking trails that make it easy to get outside. We also love the variety of local events, including outdoor music events and the farmer’s market. There’s always something fun and interesting going on in Madison!

Why did you select the University of Wisconsin Dermatology Residency for your training?

During my away rotation, I was instantly drawn to the sense of community in the program. I saw how tight-knit and kind everyone was in the residency and department. I realized that this was where I wanted to train!

Andrea Rustad, MD

Hometown: Stillwater, MN
Undergraduate: Boston University
Medical School: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Internship: St. Joseph Hospital, Chicago, IL

What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?

I have been dancing my whole life (mostly ballet and jazz), including completing a dance minor in college, and have continued to perform in dance groups during medical school and residency! I love going to various dance classes throughout the city, as well as fitness classes. I also love musical theatre, so going to the Broadway shows that come through Madison is awesome!

What do you like best about doing your dermatology training at the University of Wisconsin?

The excellence in education, care, and research in multiple aspects of dermatology including pediatrics, surgery, pathology, and general dermatology with multiple subspecialty clinics make for a strong and well-rounded residency experience that I know will prepare me well to be the best dermatologist I can be. It is great that we have such a variety of clinical sites including the VA, children’s hospital, multiple outpatient clinics, and unique clinics such as inmate clinic. The residents and faculty are all so kind, intelligent, and passionate about dermatology and patient care, which makes me as a resident feel inspired and supported. Madison is such a great place to live as well! I love the lakes and many parks, variety of restaurants and cafes, bike paths, and that there are so many fun events yearlong!

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