SCALE Rising Stars Program
Abstracts for the 2027 Rising Stars Program are now open. Submit by March 31, 2027, 12:00 am EDT.
Ten residents and fellows will take the Music City SCALE stage in Nashville. If you are selected, you will present your research to national faculty and peers, work one-on-one with a SCALE faculty mentor, and join an invitation-only networking luncheon with faculty and industry leaders. SCALE 2027 takes place May 19–23, 2027.
The SCALE Rising Stars Program is open to residents and fellows in dermatology, plastic surgery and oculoplastic surgery. Original research, clinical studies and case reports are all welcome.
Key Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Abstract submission deadline | March 31, 2027 |
| Selection notifications | April 16, 2027 |
What Selected Presenters Receive
- A live podium slot at SCALE 2027 in front of leading experts and peers
- Complimentary SCALE registration
- Resident Scholarship Stipend to offset travel: $[1,250] for presenters traveling from outside the Nashville area, $[500] for local presenters
- A faculty mentor assigned for the meeting
- A seat at the Resident Networking Luncheon
- A national presentation for your CV and academic portfolio
Who Should Apply
You are eligible if you:
- Are currently enrolled in an ACGME-accredited residency or fellowship in dermatology, plastic surgery or oculoplastic surgery
- Are the primary author or a significant contributing author of the submitted abstract
- Will serve as the presenting author at SCALE 2027
Podium Presentations
The top 10 abstracts are selected for live podium presentation. Each presentation is 5 minutes, followed by a 2-minute audience Q&A. Presentations are judged live onsite by SCALE faculty.
Publication Opportunity
SCALE is working with a journal partner The Dermatologist to publish selected 2027 E-Posters online. The submission form asks whether you would like your E-Poster considered.
Awards & Recognition
The top 3 presentations receive a plaque. The top presenter also receives a $[500] cash prize. Awards are presented at the Resident Networking Luncheon.
Mentorship
Every selected presenter is paired with a SCALE faculty mentor for the meeting. Your mentor will:
- Coach you and give feedback on your presentation
- Introduce you to faculty and colleagues at the meeting
- Offer career guidance and professional advice
- Share perspective on academic and private practice pathways
Resident Networking Luncheon
All residents attending SCALE are invited to the Resident Networking Luncheon at SCALE. Meet SCALE faculty and industry leaders, connect with sponsoring partners, explore career opportunities and collaborations, and build relationships across the dermatology and aesthetic medicine community.
If You Are Selected
Selected presenters agree to:
- Attend SCALE in person
- Present at the live podium session at SCALE
- Attend the Resident Networking Luncheon
- Take part in assigned mentorship activities
- Help promote SCALE on social media before the meeting
- Complete a short pre-meeting and post-meeting evaluation