Program Details

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The goal of the Virtual Magic Wand® (VMW) Program is to adopt and implement the Magic Wand Initiative (MWI) by empowering and educating clinicians on the process of identifying an unmet need, deeply understanding the problem and framing the problem in such way that makes it possible to find practical solutions. We will aim to connect clinicians interested in working on solving the problems they have identified with industry and nonprofit organizations to help further their work.

The VMW program is an instructive and interactive course, which culminates with the submission of a white paper that thoroughly describes a specific clinical problem or critical barrier to progress in the field of dermatology. Clinicians will participate in monthly teleconferences led by the VMW program co-chairs and director to identify, vet and define problems worth solving. Clinicians are expected to attend 80% of the teleconferences if they are accepted to and enroll in the program.

The course exposes clinicians to the basics of intellectual property, regulatory and commercial considerations in product development, as well as how to create an effective pitch deck. Each teleconference will be one to two hours in length, depending on the session, and will be held once per month. Submission of a white paper is required at the conclusion of the program and is expected to define why the problem identified is worth solving, current solutions (if any), why the current solutions are insufficient to support meaningful progress toward solving the problem, and who would directly benefit from progress in the area.

Individuals with a passion for innovation and problem-driven research, and those interested in identifying new strategies and solutions with potential to significantly impact dermatologic health are encouraged to apply.


Apply to the next VMW Course

For more information on how to apply, please contact info@magicwandinitiative.org