, M.D., an international leader in fungal and psoriasis research and dermatological clinical trials, has been named the new chair of the University of Alabama at Birmingham Department of Dermatology. Elewski has been a professor of Dermatology at UAB for the past 17 years. She holds the James E. Elder M.D. Endowed Professorship for Graduate Education, and is currently vice chair for Clinical Affairs and director of the Dermatology Residency Program. She will assume her new role as chair on January 1.
“I hope to create a destination dermatology department for patients, staff, residents, faculty and community dermatologists. Building on a strong foundation of research and patient care, I hope to expand our patient services and research opportunities so that UAB Dermatology remains a shining light for future generations,” Elewski said.
Elewski is an international leader in fungal and psoriasis research and dermatological clinical trials. She’s been conducting clinical trials through her entire career and has received 85 clinical trial study grants to pursue therapies for many dermatologic conditions. She’s authored more than 300 publications and served in numerous national societies and organizations, including as president of the American Academy of Dermatology from 2004-2005.
Elewski’s hire comes after a national search to lead the department. She will succeed Craig A. Elmets, M.D., who is stepping down from the post after 18 years as department chair. He will continue his research, educational and clinical activities as a professor of dermatology.
“Boni’s dedication to key components of the school’s mission—strong research, clinical operations and medical education— made her a great choice for promotion to this top leadership role in Dermatology,” said Selwyn M. Vickers, M.D., senior vice president for Medicine and dean of the UAB School of Medicine. “Her vision will be integral as the Department of Dermatology moves to build upon the foundation of research excellence and continue to expand its clinical footprint.”
A part of the School of Medicine since its inception in 1945, the UAB Department of Dermatology has been one of the top academic departments of dermatology in the United States for over 70 years and includes 18 faculty, 13 residents and two fellows. The department provides comprehensive dermatological patient care, offering sophisticated services in the diagnosis and treatment of skin disease, and is a national center for the management of complicated skin disorders.
An Ohio native, Elewski began her career at the Ohio State University College of Medicine, where she earned her medical degree before beginning an internship in internal medicine and residency in dermatology the University of North Carolina Memorial Hospital. She held faculty positions at the Northeastern Ohio University College of Medicine and the Case Western Reserve School of Medicine before joining the UAB faculty in 1999.