DermLink Scholars Paper/Project Assignment Overview

Topic Development and Review

At each bimonthly DermLink Scholars meeting, the leadership team introduces leadership-led project topics and student-led project topics, consisting of both titles and abstracts. These topics undergo prior review by an MD, DO, or PhD to ensure scientific validity and feasibility. Only projects deemed appropriate and worthwhile for scholarly pursuit are presented to the membership.

Project Sign-Up Process

Following the first Thursday meeting of every other month, projects are opened for enrollment via SignUpGenius the subsequent Saturday. Members may sign up individually to join a project team. If a member has a Principal Investigator (PI) who is interested in contributing, their involvement is welcomed and encouraged.

Authorship Assignment and Timeline

The first author is responsible for coordinating project workflow and authorship contributions. Specifically:

  • Each co-author is assigned a color-coded section of the manuscript corresponding to their authorship order.

  • Assigned sections must be completed within three weeks of joining the project.

  • The first author monitors deadlines, ensures even distribution of work, and addresses questions related to content or structure.

Manuscript Assembly and Internal Review

Upon initial completion:

  • The first author performs a comprehensive review for accuracy, redundancy, citation integrity, and cohesion.

  • A DermLink resident editor provides an additional layer of review, focusing on scholarly quality, clarity, and journal readiness.

  • If a PI is involved, they must also review and approve the manuscript prior to submission.

Journal Submission and Post-Submission Process

The first author typically selects the target journal in consultation with co-authors. Journals are prioritized based on:

  • Peer-review rigor (mandatory requirement).

  • Provision of feedback and suggested edits during review.

  • Assignment of a functional DOI upon acceptance.

  • Transparency of APC (article processing charge) fees, which are always posted on journal websites.

Following submission, review timelines vary from 1 month to 1 year. Most projects undergo multiple rounds of revision. All authors are expected to contribute meaningfully to resubmission edits.

APC Collection and Financial Process

  • No DermLink Scholars project has ever required a sign-up fee. Any external site requesting fees under DermLink’s name is fraudulent and should be reported.

  • If an APC is required, it is split equally among all student and resident authors unless pre-arranged otherwise.

  • Historically, DermLink members have paid $8–26 per person per paper after equal distribution.

  • Before collection, authors must verify whether institutional or school funds can cover APC costs to reduce individual burden.

  • APC Collecting Officers, who serve as DermLink treasurers, securely collect payments and forward them directly to the journal with no markup.

  • Official receipts from the journal are always available to contributors for confirmation of payment.

Expectations and Accountability

  • All contributors must complete assigned work on schedule and actively participate in revisions.

  • The first author ensures adherence to academic standards and timely progress.

  • The resident editor and leadership oversee quality control prior to submission.

  • All submitted projects reflect DermLink’s commitment to collaborative, peer-reviewed, and accessible scholarship.

Communication and Support

Members are encouraged to contact the DermLink officer team with questions at any stage, whether regarding authorship roles, journal selection, APC logistics, or troubleshooting concerns.