Dermatology Research
Dermatology researchers look at a poster

Pioneering Discovery

Our department is an established leader in dermatological research and clinical investigation.

Renowned for pioneering discovery, research is an integral part of the U-M Medical School Department of Dermatology, which has established programs in clinical, translational and basic science research. We are among the top academic dermatology programs in the nation with robust research funding from federal, industry and non-profit sources totaling over $10 million in annual research expenditures (FY23).

Our department is home to innovative research focusing on the biology of the skin and the mechanisms that drive diseases involving the skin, hair and nails. Our research teams are at the forefront of dermatological science, working to translate laboratory findings into new and improved therapies to improve the health of patients with skin disease.
Our Research Areas
Basic Science & Translational Research

Our teams seek new insights about skin biology, health and disease, with efforts focused in key areas of investigative dermatology.

Clinical Research

Our Program for Clinical Research in Dermatology (PCRiD) conducts clinical studies and therapeutic research trials that offer clinical research opportunities for patients.

microscopic image from dermatology research Research Training in Dermatology

The Department of Dermatology provides training in clinical-translational investigative dermatology and basic science research to students, residents, postdoctoral fellows and early career investigators.

  • Learn more about research
    • Dermatology researchers look at a poster Skin Biology and Diseases Resource-based Center

    Our Skin Biology and Diseases Resource-based Center provides specialized services and resources to support interdisciplinary collaboration and early career investigators and involved in skin-related research.

  • Learn more about the center
    • Featured News & Stories See all news The Fundamentals Podcast Hero Card Final 1800 x 1350
    The Fundamentals
    From Patients to Progress: Advancing Autoimmune Research
    Today on The Fundamentals, our guest is Dr. Michelle Kahlenberg, an Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Dermatology, the Giles Bole and Dorothy Mulkey Research Professor of Rheumatology and the Vice Chair for Basic and Translational Research in Internal Medicine. Her clinical work is centered on the care of patients with lupus, including those with refractory skin disease. In addition to running her lab, she's an active member of the Immunology Training Program and has received national recognition for her research.
         Image of Mio Nakamura, MD, MS
    Office of Research
    Clinical Trials Support Office Announces New Associate Medical Director
    The Clinical Trials Support Office (CTSO) is pleased to announce that Mio Nakamura, MD, MS, Clinical Assistant Professor, Dermatology, has been appointed as the new Associate Medical Director of the Michigan Clinical Trials Support Unit (M-CTSU) and Michigan Clinical Research Unit (MCRU). Dr. Nakamura’s appointment will begin July 1, 2024, and is a 2-year term.
    Department News
    Dermatology Residency Match - 2024
    The Department of Dermatology announces the residency class of 2028.
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    Health Lab Podcast
    Investigating How Dermal Injections Impact Aging Skin
    A new study examines dermal injections and their impact on skin aging.
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    Health Lab
    Hippo signaling pathway gives new insight into systemic sclerosis
    Study focuses on Hippo signaling pathway as critical link between fibrosis, vascular dysfunction, and sex bias in systemic sclerosis
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    Health Lab
    Turning back the clock on photoaging skin
    Experts observed in a new study that injection of the most popular type of dermal filler, cross-linked hyaluronic acid, into photoaged skin could reverse the dermal changes associated with photoaging.