Dermatology Research
The Department of Dermatology is spearheading research in complex dermatology and, in collaboration with the University of Arizona Cancer Center, improving cancer prevention, detection and treatment.
The Department of Dermatology research programs are characterized by dynamic and collaborative research efforts with a strong focus on cutaneous oncology, inflammatory and complex skin diseases, and advanced imaging technologies. In close partnership with the University of Arizona Cancer Center and across the university, our work spans discovery, translational science and clinical application.
Our research ecosystem is designed to move innovation efficiently from bench to bedside to population, integrating biomarker discovery, novel therapeutics and cutting-edge imaging platforms to improve prevention, early detection and treatment of skin disease.
Core Research Areas
Our cutaneous oncology program focuses on advancing prevention and treatment strategies for melanoma and non-melanoma skin cancers.
Key areas include:
- Immunoprevention of non-melanoma skin cancer
- Melanoma early detection and risk stratification
- Biomarker discovery and genomic profiling of sun-damaged skin
- Development and implementation of novel intralesional therapies for the management of skin cancer
This work is supported by NIH and major collaborative initiatives, including multi-institutional data harmonization efforts and the development of a robust patient registry, imaging platform and tissue bank infrastructure.
A major strength of the department is the integration of engineering, optics and dermatology to develop next-generation diagnostic tools.
Active areas include:
- Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM)
- Photoacoustic and synthetic wavelength imaging
- Three-photon microscopy and 3D skin imaging
These programs are supported by NIH and institutional funding and are closely aligned with collaborators across engineering, BIO5 and basic sciences.
Our Inflammatory and Complex Skin Disease Program provides patients with access to innovative therapies through an active clinical trials unit, while advancing the understanding and treatment of chronic dermatologic conditions.
This program is focused on addressing the medical dermatology needs of southern Arizona and beyond, with an emphasis on delivering high-quality, patient-centered care alongside meaningful clinical discovery.
Areas of focus include:
- Atopic dermatitis
- Hidradenitis suppurativa
- Prurigo nodularis and chronic pruritus
- Vitiligo
- Psoriasis and autoimmune blistering diseases
Ongoing clinical trials include targeted biologics and JAK inhibitors, reflecting our commitment to bringing cutting-edge therapeutic options to patients. In parallel, the program is expanding efforts to better understand the impact of aging on skin disease, contributing to the evolving field of geriatric dermatology.
Translational Research Engine
Our programs are connected through a unified translational model:
Bench → Pilot Studies → Clinical Trials → Population Health
This structure allows discoveries in the laboratory to be rapidly tested, validated and implemented in clinical practice, ultimately improving patient outcomes at scale.
Education and Research Training
The department is deeply committed to training the next generation of physician-scientists.
Fellows lead projects in clinical trials and datasets, including the national and institutional registries. They work closely with faculty, students and biostatisticians.
Faculty members mentor projects across medical students, residents and undergraduates, supported by pilot funding and collaborative infrastructure.
Clinical Trials
Clinical research is a core component of our mission. Our program includes:
- Industry-sponsored and investigator-initiated trials
- Observational and registry-based studies
- Collaborative trials
These efforts provide patients access to novel therapies while advancing the field of dermatology.