Dermatology has provided a rich context for physician scientists to develop skillsets to successfully transition to an independent faculty position. While many trainees have substantial research training from their graduate training (MSTP, MHS, MD, PhD degrees), most require additional post-graduate training to successfully develop a research program integrated with clinical expertise. The need for additional training has led to the development of models which are generally referred to as physician scientist training programs (PSTP) or Umbrella PSTPs.
PSTP Programs: These integrate clinical training in Dermatology with or without clinical fellowship training with research activities over a five- to seven-year training period.
Umbrella PSTPs: These programs support the growth and diversity of the physician scientist workforce at all levels of training and provide opportunities for training graduate students, residents, and post-doctoral fellows, as well as junior faculty.