With a background in immunology research, Dr. Elise Burger quickly developed an interest in dermatology after coming to UT Southwestern. By earning both medical and doctorate degrees, she hopes to use her knowledge to research and treat dermatologic diseases. Due in part to her passion, she is this year’s recipient of the Award for Excellence in Dermatology.

Dr. Elise Burger

What this award means: This is meaningful to get acknowledgement for many years of hard work, both in medical school and graduate school, and because it shows that the Department of Dermatology believes in me and my future goals of becoming a physician-scientist in dermatology.

Mentor comment: Elise, who intends to become an academic dermatologist with a focus on laboratory-based research, fully embodies the spirit of this award. In addition to her academic achievements, which include membership in the Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society and outstanding grades throughout medical school, Elise has already published research in high-impact journals. Similarly, Elise is a compassionate, wonderful clinician. Taken together, Elise has demonstrated incredible enthusiasm and devotion to a career as a physician-scientist. – Dr. Heidi Jacobe, Associate Professor of Dermatology, who holds the James N. Gilliam, M.D. Chair in Dermatology.

Background and family: I grew up in Salt Lake City as an only child. I played soccer and ran track in high school. I am a first-generation doctor, as there are no physicians or scientists in my family.

What led to your career path: Since a young age, I’ve always loved science. During undergrad studies, I engaged in translational immunology research, then struggled to choose between medical and graduate school. Ultimately, I decided to pursue both training pathways in the Medical Scientist Training Program.

College: I received my B.A. from Occidental College, where I majored in biochemistry. I was a hammer thrower on the track and field team, a biology tutor, and a library manager. I received a number of academic honors and recognitions that include Junior Phi Beta Kappa, the Merck Award for Outstanding Chemistry/Biochemistry Student, All-Academic Student Athlete, the Organic Chemistry Achievement Award, and the Science Scholars Fellowship Award.

UTSW activities: I’ve volunteered at the Agape Dermatology Clinic over the past eight years, which allowed for wonderful interactions with patients, residents, and faculty and helped foster my clinical love of dermatology. I also participated in many events with the Bike Club, and I am the previous President of the Medical Genetics Interest Group.

Surprising fact: When I am off campus, I can usually be found at a CrossFit gym, which has given me the opportunity to compete at both a local and national level and provided an incredibly supportive community of lifelong friends.

Future plans: I plan to pursue a dermatology residency at UC San Diego Medical Center, and my ultimate goal is to become a physician-scientist, where I can see a cohort of patients in clinic and study their diseases in the lab.

About the award: The award is given to a UT Southwestern graduating medical student who has advanced dermatological patient care, research, or teaching in a special way, or who shows promise for leadership in these areas. The recipient receives a certificate and $1,000.