Research at RPA Dermatology

The RPA Department of Dermatology's world-leading research has resulted in breakthroughs in our understanding of the interplay between ultraviolet (UV) and the immune system in controlling skin cancers, the use of vitamins in skin cancer prevention, and the use of novel immunotherapies for psoriasis and for recurrent melanoma in the skin.

The Lyons Family Fellowship

Dr Michelle Chen is the inaugural RPA Country and Clinical Trials Fellow. This is a new, philanthropically funded position made possible by the generous support of Tom and Carolyn Lyons.

Dr Chen's responsibilities include busy Medical Dermatology Clinics with A/Prof Deshan Sebaratnam and Dr Thevaki Wain at Dubbo Base Hospital, which provide much-needed public hospital care for adults and children with severe, inflammatory skin conditions.

Dr Chen is currently responsible for two clinical trials at RPA:

The Siroskin Study. This is an investigator-initiated, University of Queensland-led randomised controlled Phase 3 trial evaluating topical sirolimus cream to help prevent facial squamous cell carcinomas in transplant patients.

Enhancing Sunscreen Habits in High-Risk Patients ("ESHHR") Study. This is an investigator-initiated, randomised controlled Phase 2 study evaluating whether providing pharmacy-dispensed, "prescription" sunscreen packs and written sun protection information can improve daily sunscreen use in people who have already had multiple skin cancers.

Dr Michelle Chen and A/Professor Deshan Sebaratnam at Dubbo Base Hospital