Virtual Magic Wand®

Program Details

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.

Asian Virtual Magic Wand

The Asian Virtual Magic Wand (VMW) Program, launched in June 2024 with generous support from Sinclair Aesthetics, offers a unique opportunity to engage dermatologists and plastic surgeons interested in the process of problem-based innovation. Participating physicians will learn how to identify unmet needs, navigate regulatory and commercial considerations in product development, and create an effective pitch deck.

Our inaugural cohort consists of 21 highly motivated dermatologists and plastic surgeons from across Asia. These scholars are eager to engage in innovative research and make significant strides in their respective fields. Through the Asian VMW Program, we are excited to promote academic excellence and build a diverse community of professionals passionate about the transformative power of innovation.