Feature: International Women's Day - Dr. Sonja Molin

General DOM News & Events

| 28 March 2024

In honour of International Women’s Day, we will be highlighting four inspirational women from the Department of Medicine this month.

Meet Dr. Sonja Molin, Chair of the Division of Dermatology in the Department of Medicine. She is an academic dermatologist committed to high-quality patient care, innovative treatments, research, and is passionate about teaching. She is the principal investigator of several ongoing research projects and has received prestigious research prizes. She has been actively involved in clinical research and conducted trials since 2006. She is an internationally renowned expert in inflammatory skin diseases, including hand eczema, atopic dermatitis and psoriasis, contact allergy and occupational dermatology.

What initially sparked your interest in pursuing a career in medicine?

It all started with an interest in biological processes and science, but what ultimately made me choose medicine was the prospect of being able to work with and personally connect with many different people. I was also drawn to the idea that, as a physician, you commit to lifelong learning and continuous growth, challenged by your experiences and the ever-changing medical field.

What advice would you give to young women aspiring to pursue a career in medicine?

There are many ways that you can be happy and have a fulfilling career in medicine. You choose. Don’t let anyone tell you there are things you can’t do or achieve because of your gender. It’s also OK to change paths in your career if your pursuit of happiness requires an adjustment of plans. And yes, you can have both a career in medicine and a family if you want.

What do you find most rewarding about being a woman in medicine?

Being a physician is both rewarding and challenging. At the end of the day, I might have been able to contribute something positive to someone’s life by helping my patients to navigate difficult situations and live happier and healthier lives, but also by trying to be an inspiration for the next generation of physicians. I truly enjoy the personal and lasting connections we build with our patients, team members and co-workers, colleagues, and our learners.

How do you unwind and de-stress after a long day at the hospital? Any guilty pleasures or favourite relaxation rituals?

I love listening to the stories my three kids share with me about their school day and activities. So much excitement and candor - beautiful and refreshing! When it’s not winter, I love to go for a little roundabout through my backyard to see which of the many flowers I have planted are sprouting out or blooming. My favourites are daffodils and peonies. And finally, I enjoy singing and have recently joined Cantabile Choirs, a wonderful community choir where all generations can sing.

Feature: International Women's Day - Dr. Sonja Molin

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Feature: International Women's Day - Dr. Sonja Molin

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