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Department of Surgery Department of Surgery
  1. Department of Surgery
  2. Divisions
  3. Plastic Surgery
  4. Education
  5. Medical Student Education
  6. Current Researchers

Plastic Surgery Medical Student & Resident Research Program

Current Researchers

  • Avery Apostle

    Avery Apostle

    Undergraduate Institution: University of Michigan
    Medical School: California University of Science and Medicine
    Clinical interests: Comprehensive reconstructive care spanning gender-affirming surgery, trauma reconstruction and craniofacial surgery.
    Why UC San Diego? Coming from a home institution without a plastics program, the residents and faculty within the Division of Plastic Surgery never hesitated to extend their mentorship and resources to help me prepare for residency. After completing the PRIME mentorship program as an M2 and joining their research team as an M3, I knew that I would continue to thrive during my research year with the enthusiasm and support of the UC San Diego PRS community.
    What do you like about San Diego? I love the endless opportunities for outdoor recreation, and spending time exploring the numerous rich cultural neighborhoods, such as Hillcrest or Convoy District
  • Janey Lee

    Janey Lee

    Undergraduate Institution: Boston College
    Medical School: UC San Diego
    Clinical Interests: Oncologic and traumatic reconstruction, pediatric surgery
    Why UC San Diego? During my rotation with the Division of Plastic Surgery, I experienced the breadth and depth of the care provided, as well as the dedication of each member of the team to providing high-quality care with compassion.
    What do you like about San Diego? Being able to go to the beach or watch the sunset at any moment, the big-city access with a more relaxed, small-city feel, and tacos.
  • Alvin Nguyen

    Alvin Nguyen

    Undergraduate Institution: UC Berkeley
    Medical School: University of Illinois Chicago
    Clinical Interests: General reconstructive surgery and pediatric plastic surgery, including evaluating reconstructive techniques and outcomes. 
    Why UC San Diego? There is a great mix of kindness, humor and dedication among the fellows, residents and attendings. In addition, the variety of research topics available presents a comprehensive learning opportunity. Overall, UC San Diego offers a team in which one can find lasting friendships and invaluable mentorship.
    What do you like about San Diego? San Diego is a beautiful, diverse city that offers a lot for people with varying hobbies and interests. I also have some wonderful friends from San Diego, which makes the experience even better.
  • Jenna Stelmar

    Jenna Stelmar

    Undergraduate Institution: UCLA
    Medical School: UC San Diego
    Clinical Interests: Craniofacial surgery and patient-reported outcomes.
    Why UC San Diego? I was drawn to UC San Diego's research prowess as one of the most well-funded academic research institutions in the country.
    What do you like about San Diego? The weather, burritos, proximity to my family, and location near some of the best beaches and mountains — perfect for completing the occasional California triathlon with friends (surfing, snowboarding and skateboarding in one day)!