Gary J. Fisher, PhD

Gary Fisher is the Harry Helfman Professor of Molecular Dermatology in the Department of Dermatology at the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor and Director of the Photoaging and Aging Research Program. He received his PhD from Cornell University in 1980 and received his postdoctoral training at Washington University in the Departments of Biological Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine.

Dr. Fisher is mentor to junior faculty in translational research and to post-doctoral fellows, medical (at all levels) and diversity students in laboratory science. Also Dr. Fisher directs the basic science core curriculum course, which is taught to all residents in the Dermatology Department. Dr. Fisher has been a guest lecturer at NIH workshops and continuing education conferences for medical students and nurses alike.

Dr. Fisher has received recognition as an inventor and by the dean for achievements in clinical and basic science research. He is associate editor for the Journal for Investigative Dermatology and Journal of Dermatological Science. In addition, he is a reviewer for several scholarly journals and is an invited speaker at major scientific meetings in the United States, Europe and Asia. Dr. Fisher is the author of over a hundred published papers.

Dr. Fisher's research studies the molecular mechanisms of sun-induced premature skin aging and the molecular mechanisms of chronological skin aging focusing on four major areas: procollagen biosynthesis, collagen degradation, signal transduction, and inflammation. Dr. Fisher's laboratory works with the Clinical Research Unit (CRU), Cosmetic Laser Surgery Unit and Cutaneous Surgery and Oncology Unit. His additional current interests include mechanisms of protein phosphatases and stem cells in aging human skin.