Donald A. Adam Melanoma and Skin Cancer Center of Excellence

Our vision is to be a world-leading Melanoma and Skin Cancer research program that leverages basic science to bring practice-changing new prevention and therapeutic approaches to the clinic. Combined with an internationally-recognized Cutaneous Oncology Clinic, the CoE leverages collaborative efforts centralized at Moffitt, allowing us to focus on efforts most likely to maximize unique advantages at Moffitt, rapidly translate findings through clinical trials led here, and to place Moffitt on the international stage for melanoma and skin cancer research and therapy. The CoE/Department of Cutaneous Oncology has participated in every pivotal clinical trial that has led to FDA approval of an agent for skin cancer since 2010, a distinction that is shared by no other cancer center.

Goals of the Melanoma and Skin Cancers CoE

1. To develop new basic research programs in areas of urgent clinical need
2. To promote translational research and new clinical trials that improve outcomes for skin cancer patients
3. To develop new technologies that improve the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of skin cancers.

Leadership

The CoE is led by Dr. Keiran Smalley, an expert in melanoma biology and therapy, Dr. Kenneth Tsai, an expert in non-melanoma skin cancers and Dr. Vernon Sondak, a world-leading melanoma surgeon. Together, the team brings together deep experience in basic science, translational research and clinical practice to the study and treatment of melanoma and other skin cancers.