Campbell Stewart, M.D., talking to a patient in an exam room

Research & Clinical Trials

The Dermatology Clinical Research Unit (DCRU) is dedicated to high quality, innovative and high-impact dermatology research. The Clinical Research team consists of highly qualified, trained and certified research professionals who are committed to assisting in the planning, development, implementation, and regulatory oversight of all phases of clinical trials.

Under the guidance of the Clinical Research Director, Jun Lu, M.D., FAAD, the DCRU conducts clinical research studies on a variety of dermatologic conditions, adhering to a mission of advancing the understanding of skin diseases and discovering novel therapies to benefit dermatology patients.

While conducting many investigator initiated trials, the DCRU also actively partners with various pharmaceutical companies and other academic medical centers to bring revolutionary research studies to UConn Health. The DCRU partners with UConn Health to meet its goals of excellence in patient care, education, and research.

Our Team

Jun Lu, M.D.
Clinical Research Medical Director

Akua Pokuah Sarfo, M.D., PhD
Assistant of Director Dermatology Clinical Research

Ektor Rafti, M.D.
Clinical Trials Research Facilitator

Meg Toro, CCRC
Senior Clinical Research Associate

Sueheidi Santiago, M.D.
Clinical Research Fellow

Seda Gul Sahin
Medical Student

Timothy Klufas
Medical Student

Current Open Studies

Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS)

Discoid and Subacute Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus (DLE/SCLE)

Psoriasis

Bullous Pemphigoid

Urticaria

Atopic Dermatitis

Frequently Asked Questions