Who We Are
In Canada, dermatopathologists are pathologists with combinations of formal and informal focused training and whose scope of practice over an extended period has been wholly or mostly within the field of dermatopathology. Some dermatopathologists are also fully trained dermatologists. These physicians integrate the clinical information with microscopic observations of the biopsy from the patient to provide diagnostic information to the treating physician.
Dermatopathology is a consultative service to the referring physician and not simply a laboratory test. The accurate microscopic interpretation of the biopsy is essential in the selection of appropriate therapies.
About CSDP
The Canadian Society of Dermatopathology (CSDP) is a Special Interest Group for CAP-ACP (Canadian Association of Pathologists – Association canadienne des pathologistes) primarily focused on dermatopathologists, dermatologists, pathologists, pathology residents, and dermatology residents with an interest in dermatopathology.
Mission
The mission of the CSDP is to provide a forum for promoting education and awareness about advances in the diagnosis and treatment of skin diseases. It aims to stimulate basic and translational research by coordinating multidisciplinary efforts across pathology, dermatology, oncology, and surgery. This is achieved through annual meetings, workshops, and conferences that feature discussions on challenging cases. Importantly, the CSDP is committed to providing virtual education to pathologists and dermatopathologists worldwide, extending its reach and impact beyond Canadian borders.
Vision
The CSDP’s vision is to enhance the profession of dermatopathology through awareness and continued education, thereby improving the quality of life for Canadians who access dermatopathological services through the healthcare system.
As a Special Interest Group of CAP-ACP, the CSDP aligns with the broader goals of the Canadian Association of Pathologists, which is dedicated to fostering excellence in the practice of pathology through advocacy, education, and innovation to promote the highest quality of care for patients.
Our Executive Committee
Dr. Allison Osmond
Dermatopathologist, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL
Dr. Anurag Sharma
Dermatopathologist and Director of Dermatopathology Services, University of Kansas Medical Center (KUMC), Kansas City, KS, United States
Dr. Kaitlin Vanderbeck
Dermatopathologist, Kingston Health Sciences Centre, Kingston, ON
Dr. Ayman Al Habeeb
Dermatopathologist, University of Toronto & Trillium Health Partners, Toronto, ON
Read Bio Here
Dr. Ahmed Shah
Dermatopathologist & Bone and Soft Tissue Pathologist
University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta
Executive Committee Membership Requirements
Eligibility Criteria
The Canadian Society of Dermatopathology (CSDP) maintains rigorous standards for executive membership, ensuring that only individuals with outstanding achievements in the field of dermatopathology are selected.
To be considered for executive committee membership in the CSDP, candidates must:
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Hold a fellowship from the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada (or equivalent United States or international certification) in Anatomical Pathology or Dermatology.
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Have completed additional specialized training in dermatopathology (ICDP – UEMS International Board Certification in Dermatopathology or American Board of Dermatopathology Certification) and/or,
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Demonstrate a significant contribution to the field through research, publications, or clinical practice.
Selection Process
Nomination
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Candidates must be nominated by an existing member of the CSDP in good standing.
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Nominations must be submitted in writing to the Secretary, detailing the candidate’s qualifications and achievements.
Review by Expert Panel
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A panel of recognized national and international experts in dermatopathology evaluates each nomination.
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Panel members are selected based on their outstanding achievements and reputation in the field.
Evaluation Criteria
The expert panel assesses candidates based on:
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Research contributions and publications in peer-reviewed journals
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Clinical expertise and diagnostic skills
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Teaching and mentorship activities
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Leadership roles in relevant professional organizations
Voting
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Eligible nominations are presented at the Annual Business Meeting of the CSDP.
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Election for executive membership requires a majority vote from the existing membership
Membership Benefits & Responsibilities
Benefits
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Access to exclusive educational resources and conferences
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Opportunities to contribute to national guidelines and standards in dermatopathology
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Networking with leading experts in the field
Responsibilities
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Actively participate in CSD initiatives and committees
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Contribute to the advancement of dermatopathology through research or education
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Uphold the highest standards of professional practice and ethics
Ongoing Membership Requirements
To maintain executive membership status, individuals must:
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Participate regularly in CSDP activities and meetings
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Demonstrate continued excellence in their professional practice
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Adhere to the CSDP’s code of ethics and professional conduct
This rigorous selection process and ongoing requirements ensure that executive members of the Canadian Society of Dermatopathology represent the highest echelon of expertise in the field, fostering advancement and maintaining the society’s reputation for excellence.
Job / Fellowship Postings
Dermatopathologist Position
Vancouver General Hospital
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Vancouver General Hospital is looking to hire an experienced Dermatopathologist to join a team of 4 Dermatopathologists within a large group of Anatomic Pathologists providing coverage at Vancouver General Hospital and University of British Columbia Hospital.
This is a blended clinical and academic salaried position ($377,790 plus benefits), requiring the successful applicant to provide diagnostic support for the Dermatopathology service within our region and consultative expertise for the province of British Columbia. This is a busy service, with significant teaching responsibilities: Vancouver General Hospital serves as a training centre for Pathology and Dermatology residents and Dermatopathology fellows; the successful candidate will also participate in teaching of undergraduate and graduate students, and in administrative tasks, including quality management, committee work and collaboration in health authority initiatives. The applicant will be expected to work synergistically with the affiliated research programs, continuing the tradition of academic excellence in Dermatology and Pathology at UBC.
This position will also be a clinical faculty position in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the University of British Columbia (UBC). Clinical faculty appointments at UBC will be at a rank determined by the Appointments and Promotion Committee of the UBC Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. In accordance with Canadian Employment and Immigration requirements, preference will be given to Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada. Qualified applicants will be eligible for full licensure with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC and will hold Canadian certification in Anatomical Pathology or General Pathology, as well as either American Board certification in Dermatopathology or fellowship training that includes a commensurate amount of Dermatopathology and clinical Dermatology experience.
UBC and its affiliates hire based on merit and support employment equity. All qualified persons are encouraged to apply. Only short-listed applicants will be contacted in follow-up. The start date for this position will be April 1, 2026, or as soon thereafter as possible.
Interested applicants meeting the above qualifications should forward their curriculum vitae, a statement of career plans, including teaching and research, and contact information of three referees by email to Dr. Eric Belanger, Head – Division of Anatomical Pathology, Vancouver General Hospital at eric.belanger@vch.ca.