Julia L. Gao
Hi, I'm Julia!
An aspiring future dermatologist,
working on blending medicine, art, and research to
improve quality of life for patients
Current clinical and translational research fellow at UCSDPreviously:
Clinical trial research fellow at Harvard
Preliminary year internship at Dartmouth Health
Transgender dermatology research year at BIDMC/Fenway Health
Teledermatology research assistant for the founder of DermNet NZNow a dermatology reapplicant,
taking the scenic route on my way to dermatology.
Welcome to my visual CV.
(Because ERAS is tough to read!)
About me
Hi, I'm Julia! I am originally from Maryland, but I've lived all over and driven myself to every corner of the U.S. to fully explore the beautiful nature of our country. I started off in Baltimore volunteering at free clinics for the homeless. Little did I know that this would eventually lead me to New Zealand, Boston, and San Diego, where I have worked with inspirational dermatology mentors working tirelessly to help the underprivileged in their own communities.My passion for dermatology stems from an innate drive to improve care for underserved populations through innovative research and advocacy, a motivation that has shaped my growth as a clinician and researcher over the years. Now, I have led projects in transgender dermatology, access initiatives for dermatology deserts, and clinical trials for developing novel therapeutics to treat inflammatory skin conditions (including hidradenitis suppurativa, atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, and more) at Harvard and UCSD. It's challenging at times, but the fulfillment from seeing my patients' skin and quality of life improve makes it well worth it!Beyond medicine, I'm an artist, outdoor enthusiast, and a globe-trotter who finds joy in exploring cultures and crafting meaningful connections wherever I go!
Education
| Institution | Title/Degree | Year | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of California, San Diego | Clinical and Translational Research Fellowship at the UCSD Dermatology Clinical Trial Unit and Gallo Lab | 2024-current | San Diego, CA |
| Harvard Medical School | Clinical Trial Fellowship at the BIDMC Clinical Laboratory for Epidemiology and Applied Research in Skin (CLEARS) | 2023-2024 | Boston, MA |
| Dartmouth Health | PGY-1 Preliminary Year in Internal Medicine | 2022-2023 | Lebanon, NH |
| George Washington University | Doctor of Medicine (M.D.), Global Health Scholarly Concentration, B.S.-M.D. Early Assurance Scholar | 2017-2022 | Washington, DC |
| University of Maryland, College Park | B.S. in Biological Sciences, specialization in Physiology & Neurobiology; B.S. in Psychology; Integrated Life Sciences Honors College; summa cum laude | 2013-2017 | College Park, MD |
UMD 2017
GW 2022
DHMC 2022
Why dermatology?
I can go on and on about this! Dermatology and all its variety fascinates me. As an energetic, nerdy artist who just wants to help people, it was only natural that I became drawn to dermatology. I love being in clinic, forming connections with my patients, whether they're short-term or long-term. You get to team up with patients of all ages and backgrounds to help heal their skin. I enjoy the variety that a day will bring, whether it's in the clinic or a busy procedural schedule. Most of all, I greatly admire how dermatologists have so much power to help our patients live and thrive with truly improved quality of life.
Clinical Dermatology Experiences
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA
July 2023 - June 2024 || Dermatology clinic, weekly || Drs. Alexa Kimball and Martina PorterDartmouth Health, Lebanon, NH
Aug - Sept 2022 || Inpatient dermatology, 3 weeks || Dr. Alicia DagrosaMetroHealth, Cleveland, OH
May 2022 || Dermatology clinic, 4 weeks || Dr. David CroweTor Vergata University of Rome, Rome, Italy
April 2022 || Dermatology clinic, 3 weeks || Dr. Elena CampioneChildren's National Hospital, Washington, D.C.
November 2021 || Pediatric dermatology clinic, 4 weeks
Drs. Anna Yasmine Kirkorian and Kaiane HabeshianHarvard Medical School, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA
August 2021 || Outpatient and inpatient dermatology, 4 weeks
Drs. Vanessa Pascoe and Katherine O. BragFenway Health, Boston, MA
October 2020 - July 2021 || Dermatology clinic, weekly || Dr. Erica DommaschGeorge Washington University, Washington, D.C.
Nov 2019 || Dermatology clinic, 4 weeks || Drs. A. Friedman and A.Y. KirkorianUniversity of Auckland, Waikato District Health Board, Waikato, New Zealand
June - July 2018 || Dermatology clinic, 8 weeks
Drs. Amanda Oakley and Anita Eshraghi
Tor Vergata University of Rome
Fenway, with my mentor
Waikato DHB, New Zealand
2022
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Clinical Research
Fellowships and Internships
UCSD
Harvard Medical School / Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Fenway Health
University of Auckland
Clinical Research Experiences (cont.)
Clinical and Translational Research Fellow (Post-Doctoral)
UCSD Dermatology Clinical Trials Unit
Dr. Tissa Hata, MD, UCSD
Dr. Richard Gallo, MD, PhD, UCSD
July 2024 - Present || San Diego, California
Sub-investigator overseeing a broad range of phase II-IV clinical trials ranging from industry-sponsored to NIH investigator-initiated trials with a focus in inflammatory skin conditions and the skin microbiome
Coordinating over 9 active clinical and/or translational studies investigating therapeutics for atopic dermatitis, acne, psoriasis, vitiligo, and more
Developing experience in FDA and IRB regulations, protocol design, bacteriotherapy manufacturing, clinical outcome assessments, specimen processing, data analysis, and manuscript preparation
Mentoring students interested in becoming physician-scientists and providing advice on research methodology and career development
Authoring a review article about the role of the skin microbiome in atopic dermatitis
Gallo Lab - Summer Party 2024
DermTrial Dream Team
Bacteriotherapy shipping
SID with Dr. Hata!
ADRN
UCSD
Clinical Research Experiences (cont.)
Dermatology Clinical Trials Research Fellow
Harvard Medical School (non-ACGME PGY-2 fellowship) |
Clinical Laboratory for Epidemiology and Applied Research in Skin (CLEARS) at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center
Dr. Martina Porter, MD, Harvard Medical School
Dr. Alexa Kimball, MD, MPH, Harvard Medical School
July 2023 - June 2024 || Boston, Massachusetts
Sub-investigator overseeing active clinical trials on evolving biologic therapeutics for hidradenitis suppurativa and atopic dermatitis under the mentorship of Drs. Martina Porter and Alexa Kimball
Responsible for regulatory compliance, IRB activation and amendments, interfacing with sponsors, conducting clinical trial visits, data stewardship, and initiating new studies with a multidisciplinary team
Published a first-author review summarizing all HS biologics and small molecule therapies in phase II-IV clinical trials to date (PMID: 39060744)
Awarded the American Dermatoepidemiology Network Post-Doctoral Trainee Award at the 2024 SID meeting
Worked as a clinical provider in weekly complex medical dermatology clinics, managed patients longitudinally, and tailored therapeutic plans based on clinical outcomes
| Publication Title | Journal | Link | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hidradenitis suppurativa: new targets and emerging treatments | AJCD | Link | July 2024 |
| Oral psoriasis therapies | Dermatol. Clin. | Link | July 2024 |
| Comparing itch in psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and chronic idiopathic urticaria: A meta-analysis | JID | n/a | Submitted, under review |
| 54512 Use of therapeutic drug monitoring to assess drug levels and antibody development in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa on infliximab therapy | Published abstract in JAAD | Link | Sept. 2024 |
Pink = first author on research manuscript
Blue = other authorship on research manuscript
HMS fellowship graduation
Lab dinner with Dr. Porter
Lab walk in Barcelona!
Shipping samples
CLEARS holiday party
ADEN award
BIDMC / HMS
Clinical Research Experiences (cont.)
Dermatology Research Fellow (Pre-Doctoral)
Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Fenway Health
Dr. Erica Dommasch, MD, MPH, Harvard Medical School
July 2020 - August 2021 || Boston, Massachusetts
Established the largest comparative cohort study to date on dermatological issues affecting transgender patients, including the risk/incidence or acne and androgenetic alopecia in patients receiving gender-affirming hormone therapy
Followed patients monthly to compare the short and long-term effects of isotretinoin on transgender versus cisgender patients. Late 2024 update: the last of our long-term follow-up data is in! Full manuscript in submission
Prepared and analyzed dataset of over 46,000 patients
Learned to conduct statistical analyses using Stata and SPSS
Presented results at major conferences (i.e., AAD, SID, and more)
Synthesized findings into 4 first-author manuscripts published in JAAD
Awarded the Best Trainee Abstract as determined by the Epidemiology Expert Resource Group at the 2023 AAD Annual Meeting for the presented abstract, “Androgenetic alopecia incidence in transgender and gender diverse patients on hormone therapy compared to cisgender patients.”
Built REDCap databases, designed studies, submitted IRB applications, assisted in writing grant proposals for fellowship funding, and helped lead advocacy initiatives
Engineered an educational website as a resource for providers and patients learning about dermatological issues affecting LGBTQ patients (www.lgbtqderm.org)
AAD with Drs. Erica Dommasch and Klint Peebles
AAD 2022 Presentation
Red Sox game after lab with Dr. Erica Dommasch!
Lab reunion dinner 2023
Pink = first author on research manuscript
Blue = second author on research manuscript
| Publication Title | Status | Date |
|---|---|---|
| Acne risk in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective comparative cohort study | Published in JAAD (PMID: 35283245) | Nov 2022 |
| Androgenetic alopecia incidence in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective comparative cohort study | Published in JAAD (PMID: 36780950) | Sep 2023 |
| Androgenetic alopecia in transgender and gender diverse populations: a review of therapeutics | Published in JAAD (PMID: 34756934) | Oct 2023 |
| Navigating iPLEDGE enrollment for transgender and gender-diverse patients: a guide for providing culturally competent care | Published in JAAD (PMID: 33482255) | Sept 2021 |
| Efficacy of isotretinoin in transmasculine or genderqueer patients taking testosterone in comparison to cisgender counterparts: An interim analysis of a prospective comparative cohort study | Submitted | 2024 |
| Hidradenitis suppurativa prevalence in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective comparative cohort study | Submitted | 2024 |
| Hyperhidrosis prevalence in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective comparative cohort study | Submitted | 2024 |
| Rosacea prevalence in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective comparative cohort study | Accepted to BJD | 2023 |
| Psoriasis prevalence in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective comparative cohort study | Submitted | 2023 |
| Atopic dermatitis prevalence in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective comparative cohort study | Submitted | 2023 |
| 42017 Androgenetic alopecia incidence in transgender and gender diverse patients on hormone therapy compared to cisgender patients | Published abstract in JAAD | Sept 2023 |
| 525 Isotretinoin and mental health in gender diverse patients taking testosterone compared to cisgender patients | Published abstract in JID | May 2023 |
| 32559 Risk of hidradenitis suppurativa and hyperhidrosis in transgender patients on hormone therapy compared to cisgender patients | Published abstract in JAAD | Sept 2022 |
| 32304 Risk of skin cancer in sexual minority patients compared with heterosexual patients: a retrospective cohort study | Published abstract in JAAD | Sept 2021 |
| 319 Acne, androgenetic alopecia, and atopic dermatitis in transgender patients on hormone therapy: a retrospective comparative cohort study | Published abstract in JID | May 2021 |
Clinical Research Experiences (cont.)
Global Health Dermatology Research Intern
University of Auckland and the Waikato District Health Board
Dr. Amanda Oakley, MBChB, FRACP, University of Auckland, Founder of DermNetNZ
June - July 2018 || Hamilton, New Zealand
Launched and audited a new teledermatology program, the Suspected Skin Cancer service, to improve access to skin cancer diagnosis in an area with a severe shortage of dermatologists
Conducted a retrospective review of 402 lesions, analyzed diagnostic concordance and outcomes
Published a first-author manuscript in JMIR
Earned the global health Health Services Scholarship to fund this internship possible
Created realistic replicas of my patients’ skin lesions to build a hands-on dermoscopy imaging practice tool for teaching sessions at local CME conferences aimed at helping general practitioners improve teledermatology photo referral quality
Scribed in general dermatology and subspecialty clinics, teledermoscopy hours, dermatological surgery, travel medicine, and maxillofacial prosthetics
| Publication Title | Journal |
|---|---|
| Teledermatology for Enhancing Skin Cancer Diagnosis and Management: A Retrospective Chart Review | Published in JMIR (PMID: 38732911) |
7th World Congress of Teledermatology
Dr. Amanda Oakley, Priscilla, and me!
Waikato District Health Board
My Frankenstein's monster
A natural hot spring I stumbled upon in NZ!
Skiing near Mt Doom!
Leadership
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Expert Resource Group on LGBTQ/SGM Health
ERG Fellow & Webmaster (Dec 2020 - Present)
Authoring and developing an online, free-to-access repository of evidence-based educational resources to support physicians in addressing the dermatological needs of LGBTQ/SGM patients (www.lgbtqderm.org)
Organizing match advice panels for LGBTQ/SGM medical students to facilitate their career development
Developing database of mentoring opportunities for medical students interested in LGBTQ/SGM health and dermatology
Supporting research and advocacy efforts for promoting inclusive care in dermatology residency and beyond
AAD ERG on LGBTQ/SGM Health
Residency Panel 2021
2022 AAD Symposium
HackDartmouth 2023 - Healthcare 2023
Co-Organizer (Dec 2022 - Mar 2023)
Assisted with organizing the healthcare track of the hackathon, including the recruitment of med-tech panelists and sponsors
HackDartmouth 2023
Massachusetts Dermatology Trainee Advocacy Day
Health Policy Advocate / Trainee Lead (Jan - May 2021)
Collaborated with a team of dermatology trainees and attendings to organize a hands-on advocacy training day featuring direct meetings with state and federal lawmakers
Authored and designed legislative leave-behinds and telehealth equity briefs aimed at improving access to care
Compiled comprehensive conference logistics into an organized online resource for attendees
Coordinated expert speaker presentations on telehealth, health equity, and iPLEDGE reform
MADTAD 2021
GW Dermatology Interest Group
Director of Education (Sept 2017 - Sept 2019)
Organized events for student education and involvement in dermatology, including resident panels and a new dermatology shadowing program for pre-clinical medical students
Managed administrative tasks, organization registration, and student recruitment
Promoted dermatology literacy in the community through educational booths at local skin health fairs hosted by the GW Dermatology Interest Group, which I had founded and successfully passed the reins to likeminded advocates committed to enhancing access to dermatologic care
With my board co-directors, Reem and Ezra
GW Healing Clinic - a student-run free clinic
Director of Communications (Sept 2017 - Sept 2019)
Organized student grand rounds and fundraising events for the GW Healing Clinic, a student-run free clinic that provides primary care services to underserved patients in Maryland and D.C.
Coordinated with GW administration, finance departments, and the Healing Clinic student steering committee to organize fundraisers that attracted over 300 guests
Heel-to-Heal 5k 2018
GW Healing Clinic Vegas Night 2018
GW Suicide Prevention Week
Organizer (Oct 2018)
Organized a mental health & wellbeing event with over 100 attendees via collaboration with People Animals Love therapy dog handlers and the GW medical school administration
Me + therapy dog
Thank you People Animals Love!
2018 Suicide Prevention Week
I brought therapy dogs!
UMD Eyes on Health
Founder and President (Aug 2014 - May 2016)
Founded a community service organization to assist local federally qualified health centers in caring for underserved populations and to empower pre-medical students to take action
Launched programs for pre-health students to become involved in health advocacy via
Public health communications design team | Bread for the City
Clinical assistantship program | Baltimore Rescue Mission Clinic
Reading Pals program for pediatric visitors | Mary’s Center
Patient portal education sessions | Community of Hope
Bread for the City
BRMC 2014
Mary's Center
Community of Hope
Global Health Experiences
Italy - Dermatology Exchange Student
Tor Vergata University of Rome (April 2022)
Engaged in a global health exchange program for a monthlong rotation in the dermatology department at the Tor Vergata University of Rome
Tor Vergata Hospital
Tor Vergata Dermatology Clinic
Rome with Daniela
Amalfi Coast
Cinque Terre
Gelato, of course!!
New Zealand - Dermatology Research Intern
University of Auckland (June - July 2018)
Helped launch and audited a new teledermatology program to improve skin cancer management
Built a hands-on teaching model to teach general practitioners how to take images of skin lesions
Scribed in adult general dermatology and subspecialty clinics
Waikato Derm Crew 2018
Dr. Amanda Oakley
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Thailand - Clinical Medicine Volunteer
Healthy Youth (July 2015)
Volunteered with Healthy Youth, a non-profit supporting communities throughout Thailand to learn about the Thai medical system and Thai culture while observing various hospitalists
Assisted in general surgery; observed orthopedic, maxillofacial, and laparoscopic surgeries
Ang Thong Hospital 2015
Ang Thong Hospital Conference
Ang Thong
Host Mom's Cooking!
Bangkok
Other Volunteer Experiences
Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology (JAAD)
Peer Reviewer (Sept. 2022 - Present)
Reviewed articles submitted to the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology
GW School of Medicine & Health Sciences
Big-Little Mentor (Aug 2018 - Present)
Mentored medical students through their academic journey sand career transitions
Met regularly with mentees to provide guidance, emotional support, as well as assistance during mental health crises. Offered tailored advice on rotation preparation, research year considerations, residency applications, and board exam preparation to maximize their medical school experience while working towards a healthy work-life balance
Providing free tutoring, application advice, and interview preparation for premedical students lacking mentorship in the medical field, drawing upon my experience as part of my medical school’s interview and resident panels
2022 Littles
2019 Littles
2018 Littles
Learn2Derm Skin Health Fair
Student Volunteer Skin Analyzer (Nov. 2021)
Taught Ward 8 community members about sun protection while using skin analyzer machinery for hands-on demonstrations of how sunscreen blocks UV radiation from reaching the skin
9th Annual PeDRA Conference
Volunteer Scribe (Oct. 2021)
Wrote meeting notes for the Neonatal Skin Care Focused Study Group meeting held during the 9th Annual Pediatric Dermatology Research Alliance Conference
Fenway Health
COVID-19 Vaccine Ambassador (Feb. 2021)
Assisted community vaccination efforts by screening patients presenting for their first vaccination appointment, educating them about vaccine basics, answering any questions they may have
GW Healing Clinic
Bridge to Care Student Volunteer (Sept. 2017 – Dec. 2018)
Provided primary care services to underserved patients of Prince George’s County
Conducted patient interviews and physical exams; helped patients obtain referrals
GW School of Medicine
Student Interviewer (Jan. – Dec. 2018)
Interviewed medical school applicants for the class of 2022 and 2023
Baltimore Rescue Mission Clinic
Free Clinic Volunteer Medical Assistant (June 2014 – 2017)
Provided basic healthcare services to homeless and underserved individuals in Baltimore
Obtained patient histories, measured vitals, presented to attendings, dispensed non-prescription medications for common conditions, and participated in weekly journal discussions
Howard County General Hospital
Patient Care Volunteer (Feb. 2015 – Dec. 2015)
Assisted medical and nursing staff with daily tasks and attending to patient needs
Asian American Healthcare Center
Volunteer Clinic Assistant (July 2014 – June 2015)
Aided uninsured and low-income Asian immigrants in communicating their healthcare concerns
Managed patient databases, documented medical histories, and processed billing for basic tests
Peer-Reviewed Publications
Accepted/Published
| # | Authors (Year) | Title | Journal | Status/Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. | GAO, J.L., King, D.S., Modest, A.M., & Dommasch, E.D. (2022) | Acne risk in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective comparative cohort study | JAAD | Published. PMID: 35283245 |
| 2. | GAO, J.L., Sanz, J., Tan, N., King, D.S., Modest, A.M., & Dommasch, E.D. (2023) | Androgenetic alopecia incidence in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective comparative cohort study | JAAD | Published. PMID: 36780950 |
| 3. | GAO, J.L., Otto, T.S., Porter, M.L., & Kimball, A.B. (2024) | Hidradenitis suppurativa: new targets and emerging treatments | AJCD | Published. PMID: 39060744 |
| 4. | James, J., Otto, T., GAO, J.L., & Porter, M.L. (2024) | Oral psoriasis therapies | Dermatol. Clinics | Published. Link |
| 5. | GAO, J.L., Streed Jr, C.G., Thompson, J., Dommasch, E.D., & Peebles, J.K. (2023) | Androgenetic alopecia in transgender and gender diverse populations: a review of therapeutics | JAAD | Published. PMID: 34756934 |
| 6. | GAO, J.L., & Oakley, A. (2023) | Teledermatology for enhancing skin cancer diagnosis and management: retrospective chart review | JMIR Dermatology | Published. PMID: 38732911 |
| 7. | GAO, J.L., Mansh, M., & Peebles, J.K. | Special considerations for sexual and gender diverse patients in dermatology | JID | Accepted |
| 8. | Alnajjar, N., GAO, J.L., Snyder, C.L., Otto, T., Gibson, R., Porter, M.L., Kimball, A.B., & Tan, S. (2024) | Comparing itch in psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and chronic idiopathic urticaria: (a meta-analysis* | JID | Submitted, under review |
| 9. | Chen, R., Adekunle, T., GAO, J.L., Yanes, D.A., Dommasch, E.D., Zampella, J.G., & Yeung, H. | Attitudes, practices, facilitators, and barriers to sexual orientation and gender identity data collection in dermatology practices | Achives of Dermatological Research | Accepted |
| 10. | GAO, J.L., Davis, M.J., Dagrosa, A.T., & Momtahen, S.M. (2024) | Concurrent Langerhans cell histiocytosis and acute myeloid leukemia – a rare presentation of a rare case | JCP | Published. PMID: 38158642 |
| 11. | Look-Why, S., Otto, T.S., Chen, S.X., Dervieux, T., GAO, J.L., & Porter, M.L. (2024) | Use of therapeutic drug monitoring to assess drug levels and antibody development in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa on infliximab therapy | JAAD | Abstract, publication in process |
| 12. | Otto, T.S., Look-Why, S., Dervieux, T., GAO, J.L., Chen, S.X., & Porter, M.L. (2023) | Use of GLP1-agonists in patients with moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa may increase drug levels and decrease anti-drug antibody levels in patients using TNF-alpha inhibitor therapy | JAAD | Abstract, publication in process |
| 13. | GAO, J.L., Sanz, J., & Dommasch, E.D. (2023) | 42017 Androgenetic alopecia incidence in transgender and gender diverse patients on hormone therapy compared to cisgender patients | JAAD | Published abstract. Link |
| 14. | GAO, J.L., Kamal, K., & Peebles, J.K. (2023) | Equity for sexual and gender diverse persons in medicine and dermatology | Dermatologic Clinics | Published. PMID: 36933919 |
| 15. | Sanz, J, GAO, J.L., King, D.S., Modest, A.M., & Dommasch, E.D. (2023) | Prevalence of rosacea in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective comparative cohort study | BJD | Published. PMID: 36763873 |
| 16. | GAO, J.L., Tan, N., Sanz, J., & Dommasch, E.D. (2023) | 525 Isotretinoin and mental health in gender diverse patients taking testosterone compared to cisgender patients | JID | Published abstract. 143(5), S90. Link |
| 17. | Tan, N., GAO, J.L., Sanz, J., King, D.S., & Dommasch, E.D. (2023) | 531 Prevalence of condyloma acuminata in sexual and gender diverse populations: A retrospective cohort study | JID | Published abstract. 143(5), S91. Link |
| 18. | GAO, J.L., Sanz, J., Tan, N., & Dommasch, E.D. (2023) | Androgenetic alopecia incidence in transgender and gender diverse patients on hormone therapy compared to cisgender patients | JAAD | Published abstract. 89(3), AB16. Link |
| 19. | Sanz, J., GAO, J.L., King, D.S., Modest, A.M., & Dommasch, E.D. (2023) | Prevalence of psoriasis in transgender and gender diverse populations: A retrospective cohort study | JEADV | Accepted, in revision. |
| 20. | Sanz, J., GAO, J.L., King, D.S., Modest, A.M., & Dommasch, E.D. (2023) | Incidence of non-melanoma and melanoma skin cancer in sexual minority groups: a retrospective comparative cohort study | JAAD | Published abstract. 89(3), AB56. Link |
| 21. | Sanz, J., GAO, J.L., King, D.S., Modest, A.M., & Dommasch, E.D. (2023) | 146 Prevalence of rosacea in transgender and gender diverse populations: A retrospective cohort study | JID | Published abstract. 142(8), S25. Link |
| 22. | GAO, J.L., Rogers, G.F., Myseros, J.S., & Habeshian, K.A. (2022) | Facial cleft presenting as a congenital facial papule | Pediatric Dermatology | Published. PMID: 35677994. |
| 23. | GAO, J.L., Chittoor, J., Kirkorian, A.Y., & Habeshian, K. (2022) | Congenital craniofacial clefts | Washington D.C. Dermatological Society | Published in April 28, 2022 meeting handbook |
| 24. | GAO, J.L., Sanz, J., & Dommasch, E.D. (2022) | 32559 Risk of hidradenitis suppurativa and hyperhidrosis in transgender patients on hormone therapy compared to cisgender patients | JAAD | Published abstract. Link |
| 25. | Sanz, J, GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. (2022) | 32304 Risk of skin cancer in sexual minority patients compared with heterosexual patients: A retrospective cohort study | JAAD | Published abstract. 87(3), AB5. Link |
| 26. | Sanz, J., GAO, J.L., King, D.S., Modest, A.M., & Dommasch, E.D. (2022) | 146 Prevalence of rosacea in transgender and gender diverse populations: A retrospective cohort study | JID | Published abstract. 142(8), S25. Link |
| 27. | GAO, J.L., Shoen, E., Lipner, S. R. (2022) | Inaccuracy of Google Reverse Image searches for diagnosis of melanonychia: a cross-sectional analysis | Int. J. Dermatol. | Published. PMID: 34432292. |
| 28. | GAO, J.L., Thoreson, N., & Dommasch, E.D. (2021) | Navigating iPLEDGE enrollment for transgender and gender-diverse patients: A guide for providing culturally competent care | JAAD | Published. PMID: 33482255 |
| 29. | GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. (2021) | 319 Acne, androgenetic alopecia, and atopic dermatitis in transgender patients on hormone therapy: A retrospective comparative cohort study | JID | Published abstract. Link |
| 30. | GAO, J.L., Oakley, A. (2019) | Skin cancer referrals in New Zealand: Teledermatology expediting treatment | GW Research Days | Published abstract. Link |
In Revision/Submitted
| # | Authors (Year) | Title | Journal | Status/Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 31. | Tan, N., GAO, J.L., Sanz, J., Amara, S., Modest, A.M., & Dommasch, E.D. (2024) | Efficacy of isotretinoin in transmasculine or genderqueer patients taking testosterone in comparison to cisgender counterparts: An interim analysis of a prospective comparative cohort study | JAAD | Submitted, in revision |
| 32. | GAO, J.L., Sanz, J., Tan, N., King DS, Modest AM, & Dommasch ED. (2024) | Hyperhidrosis prevalence in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective comparative cohort study | BJD | Submitted, in review |
| 33. | GAO, J.L., Sanz J., Tan, N., King D.S., Modest A.M., & Dommasch ED. (2024) | Hidradenitis suppurativa prevalence in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective comparative cohort study | Cutis | Submitted, in review |
Oral Presentations
GAO, J.L. & Porter, M. 22-year-old female with hidradenitis suppurativa referred from rheumatology clinic. Oral presentation: Fall 2023 Hidradenitis Suppurativa Case Conference; 09/20/2023. Boston / Virtual, MA, United States of America.
GAO, J.L., Sanz, J., Tan, N., & Dommasch, E.D. Androgenetic alopecia incidence in transgender and gender diverse patients on hormone therapy compared to cisgender patients. Oral presentation: 2023 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting; 03/18/2023. New Orleans, LA, United States of America.
Sanz, J., GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. Risk of skin cancer in sexual minority patients compared to heterosexual patients: A retrospective cohort study. Oral presentation: 2023 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting; 03/18/2023. New Orleans, LA, United States of America.
Tan, N., GAO, J.L., Amara, S., King, D.S., Modest, A.M., & Dommasch, E.D. Efficacy of isotretinoin in transmale or genderqueer patients taking testosterone in comparison to cisgender counterparts: An interim analysis of a prospective comparative cohort study. Oral presentation: 2023 American Academy of Dermatology Expert Resource Group on LGBTQ/SGM Health Annual Meeting; 03/18/2023; New Orleans, LA, United States of America.
Chittoor, J., GAO, J.L., Kirkorian, A.Y., & Habeshian, K. Congenital craniofacial clefts. Oral presentation: Washington D.C. Dermatological Society Meeting; 04/28/2022. Washington, DC, United States of America.
GAO, J.L., Sanz, J., & Dommasch, E.D. Risk of hidradenitis suppurativa and hyperhidrosis in transgender patients on hormone therapy compared to cisgender patients. Oral presentation: 2022 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting; 03/26/2022. Boston, MA, United States of America
GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in transgender patients on hormone therapy: A retrospective comparative cohort study. Oral presentation: 6th World Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis Conference; 06/30/2021. Virtual, USA, United States of America.
GAO, J.L. Advocacy “how to:” how to advocate to improve telehealth equity at the state level. Oral presentation: Massachusetts Dermatology Trainee Advocacy Day 2021; 05/18/2021. Boston / Virtual, MA, United States of America.
GAO, J.L., & Kamal, K. Advocacy “how to:” How to advocate to protect the health of our sexual and gender minority patients. Oral presentation: Massachusetts Dermatology Trainee Advocacy Day 2021; 05/18/2021. Boston / Virtual, MA, United States of America.
GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. Acne, androgenetic alopecia, and atopic dermatitis in transgender patients on hormone therapy: A retrospective comparative cohort study. Oral presentation: 9th Annual American Acne and Rosacea Society Scientific Symposium; 05/06/2021. Virtual, UA, United States of America.
GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. Acne, androgenetic alopecia, and atopic dermatitis in transgender patients on hormone therapy: A retrospective comparative cohort study. Oral presentation: Society of Investigative Dermatology Virtual Meeting 2021; 05/03/2021. Virtual, UA, United States of America.
GAO, J.L. & Dommasch, E.D. Hyperhidrosis and hidradenitis suppurativa in transgender patients on hormone therapy: A retrospective comparative cohort study. Oral presentation: American Academy of Dermatology Expert Resource Group on LGBTQ/SGM Health Annual Meeting 2021; 04/23/2021. Virtual, UA, United States of America.
Poster Presentations
GAO, J.L., Snyder, C.L., Otto, T., Gibson, R., Porter, M.L., & Tan, S. 2024 Society of Investigative Dermatology Annual Meeting. Poster presented: Comparing itch in psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and chronic idiopathic urticaria: A meta-analysis. Dallas, TX, United States of America; 05/17/2024.
Look-Why, S., Otto, T.S., Chen, S.X., Dervieux, T., GAO, J.L., & Porter, M.L. 2024 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting. Poster presented: Use of therapeutic drug monitoring to assess drug levels and antibody development in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa on infliximab therapy. San Diego, CA, United States of America; 03/10/2024.
GAO, J.L., Tan, N., Sanz, J. & Dommasch, E.D. International Societies for Investigative Dermatology Meeting. Poster presented: ISID 0525 Isotretinoin and mental health in gender diverse patients taking testosterone compared to cisgender patients. Tokyo, Japan; 05/12/2023.
Tan, N., Sanz, J., GAO, J.L., King, D.S., Modest, A.M, & Dommasch, E.D. 2023 International Societies for Investigative Dermatology Meeting. Poster presented: ISID0531 Prevalence of condyloma acuminata in sexual and gender diverse populations: A retrospective cohort study. Tokyo, Japan; 05/12/2023.
Sanz, J., GAO, J.L., King, D.S., Modest, A.M., & Dommasch, E.D. 2022 Society of Investigative Dermatology Annual Meeting. Poster presented: 146 Prevalence of rosacea in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective cohort study. Portland, OR, United States of America; 05/19/2022.
GAO, J.L., Sanz, J., & Dommasch, E.D. 2022 AAD Annual Meeting. Poster presented: Risk of hidradenitis suppurativa and hyperhidrosis in transgender patients on hormone therapy compared to cisgender patients. Boston, MA, United States of America; 03/26/2022.
Sanz, J., GAO, J.L., King, D.S., Modest, A.M., & Dommasch, E.D. 2022 American Osteopathic College of Dermatology Annual Meeting. Poster presented: Prevalence of skin cancer in transgender and gender diverse populations: a retrospective cohort study. Orlando, FL, United States of America; 03/10/2022.
GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. 2021 AMA Research Challenge – Poster Session. Poster presented: Risk of acne in transgender patients on hormone therapy: a retrospective comparative cohort study. Virtual, UA, United States of America; 10/21/2021.
GAO, J.L. & Dommasch, E.D. European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Spring Symposium 2021. Poster presented: P295 Condyloma acuminatum, human papilloma virus, and anal neoplasms in transgender patients on hormone therapy: A retrospective comparative cohort study. Virtual, Slovenia; 05/06/2021.
Wei C., Adusumilli N.C., Qureshi A., Weiner J., GAO, J.L., Shah N., Chen F.R., & Friedman A.J. European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Spring Symposium 2021. Poster presented: The utilization of Altmetric and PulmX scores in assessing the top 100 trending articles related to the dermatologic aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Virtual, Slovenia; 05/06/2021.
GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. Society of Investigative Dermatology Virtual Meeting 2021. Poster presented: 319 Acne, androgenetic alopecia, and atopic dermatitis in transgender patients on hormone therapy: A retrospective comparative cohort study. Virtual, USA, United States of America; 05/05/2021.
GAO, J., & Oakley, A. GW Research Days. Poster presented: Skin cancer referrals in New Zealand: Teledermatology expediting treatment. Washington, DC, United States of America; 05/01/2019.
GAO, J., & Oakley, A. 7th World Congress of Teledermatology. Poster presented: Skin cancer referrals in New Zealand: Teledermatology expediting treatment. Houston, TX, United States of America; 11/17/2018.
Abstracts
GAO, J.L., Snyder, C.L., Otto, T., Gibson, R., Porter, M.L., & Tan, S. (2024). Comparing itch in psoriasis, atopic dermatitis, and chronic idiopathic urticaria: A meta-analysis. Accepted to: 2024 Society for Investigative Dermatology Annual Meeting; May 15-18, 2024; Dallas, TX.
Otto, T.S., Look-Why, S., Dervieux, T., GAO, J.L., Chen, S.X., & Porter, M.L. (2024). Use of GLP1-agonists in patients with moderate to severe hidradenitis suppurativa may increase drug levels and decrease anti-drug antibody levels in patients using TNF-alpha inhibitor therapy. Accepted to: 2024 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting.
Look-Why, S., Otto, T.S., Chen, S.X., Dervieux, T., GAO, J.L., & Porter, M.L. (2024). Use of therapeutic drug monitoring to assess drug levels and antibody development in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa on infliximab therapy. Accepted to: 2024 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting.
Chen, S., Snyder, C., Gibson, R. Look-Why, S., Dervieux, T., Otto, T., GAO, J.L., Kimball, A., & Porter, M. (2024). Preliminary findings from a prospective therapeutic drug monitoring study for hidradenitis suppurativa. Accepted to: Eighth Annual Symposium on Hidradenitis Suppurativa Advances (SHSA); October 13-15, 2023; Phoenix, AZ.
GAO, J.L., Tan, N., Sanz, J., & Dommasch, E.D. (2023). 525 Isotretinoin and mental health in gender diverse patients taking testosterone compared to cisgender patients. Accepted to: 1st International Societies for Investigative Dermatology Meeting; May 10-13, 2023; Tokyo, Japan.
Tan, N., Sanz, J., GAO, J.L., King, D.S., Modest, A.M, & Dommasch, E.D. (2023). ISID0531 Prevalence of condyloma acuminata in sexual and gender diverse populations: A retrospective cohort study. Accepted to: 2023 International Societies for Investigative Dermatology Meeting; May 10-13, 2023; Tokyo, Japan.
GAO, J.L., Sanz, J., & Dommasch, E.D. (2022). Androgenetic alopecia incidence in transgender and gender diverse patients on hormone therapy compared to cisgender patients. Accepted to: 2023 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting; March 17-21, 2023; New Orleans, LA
Tan, N., GAO, J.L., Amara, S., King, D.S., Modest, A.M., & Dommasch, E.D. (2023). Efficacy of isotretinoin in transmale or genderqueer patients taking testosterone in comparison to cisgender counterparts: An interim analysis of a prospective comparative cohort study. Accepted to: 2023 American Academy of Dermatology Expert Resource Group on LGBTQ/SGM Health Annual Meeting; March 18, 2023; New Orleans, LA
Sanz, J., GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. (2023). Risk of skin cancer in sexual minority patients compared to heterosexual patients: A retrospective cohort study. Accepted to: 2023 American Academy of Dermatology Annual Meeting; March 17-21, 2023; New Orleans, LA
GAO, J.L., Sanz, J., & Dommasch, E.D. (2022). Risk of hidradenitis suppurativa and hyperhidrosis in transgender Patients on hormone therapy compared to cisgender patients. Accepted for Oral Presentation at: 2022 AAD Annual Meeting; March 26, 2022; Boston, MA.
Sanz, J., GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. (2022). 32304 Risk of skin cancer in sexual minority patients compared with heterosexual patients: A retrospective cohort study. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, 142(8), S25.
GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. (2021). Risk of acne in transgender patients on hormone therapy: a retrospective comparative cohort study. Accepted to: 2021 AMA Research Challenge – Poster Session; Oct. 21-23, 2021; virtual
GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. (2021). Psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis in transgender patients on hormone therapy: A retrospective comparative cohort study. Accepted to: the 6th World Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis Conference; June 30 – July 3, 2021; virtual
GAO, J.L. & Dommasch, E.D. (2021). Acne, androgenetic alopecia, and atopic dermatitis in transgender patients on hormone therapy: a retrospective comparative cohort study. Accepted to: Brigham and Women’s Hospital Dermatology Medical Student Virtual Symposium 2021; May 26, 2021; virtual
GAO, J.L., & Dommasch, E.D. (2021). 319 Acne, androgenetic alopecia, and atopic dermatitis in transgender patients on hormone therapy: A retrospective comparative cohort study. Journal of Investigative Dermatology, 141(5), S56. Accepted to: Society of Investigative Dermatology Virtual Meeting 2021; May 3-8, 2021; virtual.
GAO, J.L., Wei C., & Dommasch, E.D. (2021). Condyloma acuminatum, human papilloma virus, and anal neoplasms in transgender patients on hormone therapy: A retrospective comparative cohort study. Accepted to: European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Spring Symposium 2021; May 6-May 7, 2021; virtual
GAO, J.L. & Dommasch, E.D. (2021). Hyperhidrosis and hidradenitis suppurativa in transgender patients on hormone therapy: A retrospective comparative cohort study. Accepted to: American Academy of Dermatology Expert Resource Group on LGBTQ/SGM Health Annual Meeting 2021; April 23, 2021; virtual
Wei C., Adusumilli N.C., Qureshi A, Weiner J, GAO, J.L., Shah N, Chen F.R., & Friedman A.J. (2021). The utilization of Altmetric and PulmX scores in assessing the top 100 trending articles related to the dermatologic aspects of the COVID-19 pandemic. E-poster presentation accepted for European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Spring Symposium 2021; May 6-May 7, 2021
GAO, J.L., Oakley, A. Skin cancer referrals in New Zealand: Teledermatology expediting treatment. (2018). Abstract accepted for: 7th World Congress of Teledermatology, Houston, Texas; November 2018
Other Employment
University of Maryland, College Park
Teaching Assistant (Jan. 2014 - May 2017)
Taught six semesters of biology courses (Organismal Biology, Cell Biology)
Independently led weekly three-hour cell biology laboratory techniques class of 24 students
Lectured classes of 90 to 150 students; directed discussions and review sessions
Fairfax Collegiates, Alexandria, Virginia
Elementary Robotics Instructor (Sept. - Dec. 2016)
Taught a weekly introductory robotics course for elementary school students
Cumberland Valley Retina Consultants
John J. Wroblewski Pre-Medical Fellow (June - Aug. 2016)
Full-time ophthalmology assistant for clinics in rural Maryland, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia
UMD with Dr. Cooke, the best professor ever
Hands-on flower biology lesson
Lego Robotics Classes
Honors and Awards
American DermatoEpidemiology Network Post-Doctoral Trainee Award
May, 2024 || Awarded at the 2024 Society of Investigative Dermatology meetingBest Trainee Abstract at the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Dermatology (New Orleans, 2023), as determined by the AAD Epidemiology Expert Resource Group
March 2023 || Awarded Best Trainee Abstract award as determined by the Epidemiology Expert Resource Group at the American Academy of Dermatology, for the abstract, "Androgenetic alopecia incidence in transgender and gender diverse patients on hormone therapy compared to cisgender patients", presented at the 2023 AAD Annual Meeting (New Orleans, 2023). Leonard C. Akman, MD ’43 Global Medicine Scholarship
April 2022 || Awarded $3,000 scholarship to support academic excellence and pursuits in global health, including a clinical rotation in dermatology at the Tor Vergata University of RomeGW Medical Center Student Council Conference Scholarship
March 2022 || Awarded $275 to support oral presentation at the AAD 2022 Annual Meeting6th World Psoriasis & Psoriatic Arthritis Conference Nature Reviews Rheumatology Poster Prize: Honorable Mention
July 2021 || Awarded for research poster, “Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis in Transgender Patients on Hormone Therapy: A Retrospective Comparative Cohort Study”Society of Investigative Dermatology (SID) Meeting Registration Grant
February 2021 || Awarded to support young investigators & presenting authors in attending the 2021 SID MeetingHealth Services Scholarship
May 2018 || Awarded $2,500 scholarship for experiential projects in global health and healthcarePresident’s Scholarship
Aug. 2013 - May 2017 || Awarded full tuition merit scholarship for outstanding academic achievement and community serviceTimothy J. Ng Scholarship in Asian American Studies
May 2016 || Awarded for demonstrated leadership & commitment to improving the lives of Asian Americans
2022 Italy Scholarship
2022 AAD Presentation
2018 NZ Scholarship
Professional Memberships
American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Expert Resource Group on LGBTQ/SGM Health
Nov. 2020 - Present
American Medical Association
Aug. 2017 - Present
Omicron Delta Kappa National Leadership Honor Society
Oct. 2015 - Present
AMA
ODK
AAD ERG on LGBTQ/SGM Health
Languages
Mandarin Chinese (Proficient/Native)
Spanish (Basic)
Reapplication cheer :)
Yosemite
King's Canyon National Park
Feeling alive on the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk in Australia!
Hiked Arthur's Pass National Park in New Zealand
Hobbies and Interests
Exploring the outdoors | I want to hike in as many national parks as possible! I've singlehandedly planned and embarked on road trips to over 27 national parks in the U.S. and New ZealandCooking and entertaining | My love language is food, and I love making spontaneous home-cooked meals with my friends!Picking up new hobbies | Since the pandemic, I've tried embroidery, pottery, hot pilates, and beginner surfing. Next up: aerial hoops!Stand-up paddleboarding | I love floating on the water with a book in hand, though that led me to getting suddenly flung off my board into the Charles River by a helicopter flying overhead-- 0/10, would not recommendBadminton | This is my favorite sport and I'm always down to play! Lately, I've been thinking about pivoting to take up pickleball as wellAmateur graphic & web design | As evidenced here at julialgao.com, www.lgbtqderm.org, and my secret pandemic cookbook website joulescookbook.carrd.co where I've collected my favorite dessert recipes
Skiing in NZ, near Mt Doom!
My first pottery lesson!
Chibird planter for my best friend!
My first ever bowl
I hosted a Bob Ross paint night
The results! So varied haha
Spicy udon, my comfort recipe
DIY pizza night with my cointerns!
Board game night!
I make an amazing Oreo cheesecake!
Embroidered gift for my friend
Hosted hotpot w/ co-residents!
Thank you very much for considering my application!
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me anytime at [email protected]. I am also more than happy to give you the contact information for my wonderful mentors and program directors who have written me letters of recommendation. Thank you for your time and consideration.Have a wonderful rest of your day!
© Julia L. Gao. All rights reserved.