Description of Training Program

The goal of the International Observership program is to teach International Physicians state of the art Dermatopathology that will advance care for patients in their home countries. The Division emphasizes application of specialized technology and expertise advantageous to both future academic pursuits and community practice. Exposure to immunofluorescence microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and diagnostic molecular biology is offered. Areas of specialized faculty expertise include malignant melanoma, cutaneous lymphoma, psoriasis, bullous disorders, nail disorders, alopecia, and infectious diseases of the skin.

Observership Program Eligibility Requirements

  • Applicants must have completed residency in either Dermatology or Pathology
  • Applicants must be financially sponsored by their government, by a home country institution, or have proof of personal financial ability
  • Applicants must be sponsored on a J-1 visa
  • Applicants must be compliant with required immunizations
  • Applicants must be proficient in English (speaking, listening, reading, writing)
  • Selected candidates will be interviewed virtually

Number of Positions per Year

One International Observership appointment is available.

Cost Estimates and Payment Procedures

Tuition of $10,000 US per year for each full-time observer will be charged. This amount will cover educational and administrative costs. Payment of half the total is required on the first day of the observership. The remaining balance is due by the 6th month of the observership.

Prior Education/Training Requirements

Successful completion of a residency in Dermatology or Pathology

Application required documents

  • Application * (must be typed)
  • Three letters of recommendation (sent directly to the program)
    • one from immediate supervisor
  • Personal Statement*
  • Current Curriculum vitae*
  • Notarized copy of Medical Degree (translated into English)
  • Medical school transcripts (either notarized or sent directly to program)
  • Financial Sponsorship documentation
  • TOEFL scores (sent directly to program from ETS) and/or Zoom Interview

*Application, CV, and Personal Statement may be sent via email to Kristina.DiGiacomo@pennmedicine.upenn.edu

Please direct all inquiries to: Kristina DiGiacomo
Dermatopathology Fellowship Program
University of Pennsylvania
3600 Spruce Street, 2 Maloney Building
Philadelphia, Pa 19104
Email: Kristina.DiGiacomo@pennmedicine.upenn.edu
Fax: 215-662-7784

DEADLINE: April 1, 2023

Applications for the academic year (July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025) will be accepted during the period January 15, 2023 through April 1, 2023. Approximately 15 months prior to start of program.

*Application, CV, and Personal Statement may be sent via email to Kristina.DiGiacomo@pennmedicine.upenn.edu Please direct all inquiries to:

Kristina DiGiacomo
Dermatopathology Fellowship Program
University of Pennsylvania
3600 Spruce Street, 2 Maloney Building
Philadelphia, Pa 19104
E: Kristina.DiGiacomo@pennmedicine.upenn.edu
F: 215-662-7784
 
Program Director
Rosalie Elenitsas, MD
2 Maloney Bldg – HUP
3600 Spruce Street
Philadelphia, PA 19104
P: 215-662-4497