Angela M. Christiano, PhD

Richard and Mildred Rhodebeck Professor & Vice Chair for Research
Department of Dermatology
Columbia University

Biography

Dr. Christiano is the Richard and Mildred Rhodebeck Professor and Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Dermatology at Columbia University. Her research is focused on understanding the molecular processes that lead to inherited skin and hair disorders in humans, and interrogating disease mechanisms using mouse models. The lab’s most recent work revolves around the investigation of the underlying genetic and immunologic drivers of alopecia areata, and identification of potential new therapeutic targets. Her team pioneered the foundational research and proof-of-concept studies that supported the use of JAK inhibitors as a novel treatment for alopecia areata. Dr. Christiano has received numerous awards, including the William Montagna Award and the Naomi Kanof Award from the Society for Investigative Dermatology, and the Ebling Award from the European Hair Research Society. She is a past President of the Society for Investigative Dermatology, and Immediate Past President of the American Hair Research Society.

As an inventor and serial entrepreneur, Dr. Christiano has successfully moved technologies from the academic setting into the commercial sector.  She earned her MS and PhD degrees in Microbiology and Molecular Genetics from Rutgers University, and completed her post-doctoral fellowship at Jefferson Medical College.  In 2020, Dr. Christiano was elected to the National Academy of Sciences.