Catherine Barker | Dermatology | Best Researcher Award

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Dr. Catherine Barker | Dermatology | Best Researcher Award

 Dr. Dermatology Resident.,  Medical University of South Carolina, United states

Catherine Shirer Barker, MD, is a distinguished dermatology resident at the Medical University of South Carolina. Born and raised in South Carolina, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a Spanish minor, graduating Summa Cum Laude from the University of South Carolina Honors College. She pursued a Doctor of Medicine degree at MUSC College of Medicine, completing medical school, followed by a preliminary internal medicine year. Her professional journey reflects a consistent commitment to patient care, medical education, and research excellence. Fluent in Spanish, she has worked extensively with underserved populations and volunteered as a medical interpreter, bridging linguistic and cultural gaps in healthcare delivery. Catherine’s multidisciplinary background, linguistic skills, and proactive leadership make her a dynamic early-career physician dedicated to advancing dermatologic care, global health, and health equity.

Professional Profile

ORCID

Education 

Dr. Barker earned her Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences with a Spanish minor from the University of South Carolina Honors College, graduating Summa Cum Laude. Her undergraduate thesis explored physician perceptions of medication nonadherence among diabetic immigrant patients. She went on to pursue her Doctor of Medicine degree at the MUSC College of Medicine. Following medical school, she completed a preliminary internal medicine residency at MUSC, which provided a strong foundation in internal medicine. She is currently in her dermatology residency at MUSC. Throughout her training, she has maintained certification in Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) and completed comprehensive CITI training, including Good Clinical Practice for behavioral research, biomedical investigations, human subjects protection, and ICH guidelines for investigational trials. This educational path demonstrates her dedication to clinical medicine, research ethics, and specialized dermatologic care.

 Research Experience 

Dr. Barker’s research portfolio is both broad and impactful. As a medical student at MUSC, she contributed to major dermatopathology research, including a retrospective analysis of 879 direct immunofluorescence (DIF) specimens in bullous diseases, where she demonstrated that n-serrated waves should not exclude bullous lupus and that u-serrated patterns had limited sensitivity for diagnosis. At local free clinics in Charleston, she led a project identifying dermatologic care gaps among uninsured patients, managed IRB applications, surveyed seven clinics, and created a prescribing guide to reduce misdiagnoses. She also co-authored a retrospective study on nurse navigation’s impact on timelines to care in breast pathology, reinforcing the value of improved care coordination. Her undergraduate research addressed diabetic polypharmacy outcomes in hospital stays and explored IL‑33/ST2 pathways in tumorogenesis in murine models. Across these roles, she has been involved in data collection, protocol development, literature review, manuscript writing, IRB applications, and cross-disciplinary collaboration.

Research Focus 

Dr. Barker’s primary research interests lie at the intersection of dermatopathology, inflammatory/connective tissue dermatologic disease, and health equity. She is especially focused on serration patterns (u- versus n-serrated) in direct immunofluorescence specimens to refine diagnostic criteria for bullous diseases (e.g., bullous pemphigoid, epidermolysis bullosa acquisita, and bullous lupus). She also investigates practical solutions to improve dermatologic access in underserved populations by implementing teledermatology programs, optimizing prescribing practices in free clinics, and assessing care delivery gaps between primary care providers and specialists. Her work extends to exploring immunomodulatory treatments—such as using dupilumab for actinic prurigo—and dermatologic implications of connective tissue and mycobacterial diseases. Moreover, her interest in global health and equitable access is evident in her outreach to uninsured and immigrant patient groups. Dr. Barker seeks to integrate clinical insights with novel diagnostic and therapeutic pathways to advance skin disease care in both academic and community settings.

Publication Top Notes

  1. Hudson K, Barker C, Oates J, Williams K. Rheumatologic manifestations in an X-linked chronic granulomatous disease carrier. American Journal of Medical Science. Accepted July 2025.
    Summary: Case series exploring autoimmune and rheumatologic features in female carriers of CGD—a novel clinical lens on CGD heterozygosity.

  2. Sagut P, Lyles E, Vroman J, Barker C, Juratli H, Bruner E, Self S, Elston D. A Comparative Study of Direct Immunofluorescence Patterns in Linear IgA Bullous Dermatosis versus Dermatitis Herpetiformis. American Journal of Dermatopathology. Published November 2024.
    Summary: Direct immunofluorescence patterns compared between two blistering disorders to improve differentiation and diagnostic accuracy.

  3. Barker C, Elston D, Lee K. Generalized Fixed Drug Eruption: A Case Series and Literature Review. Cutis, July 2024.
    Summary: Case series of generalized fixed drug eruptions, synthesizing treatment outcomes and literature-based management comparisons.

  4. Barker C, Elston D. Asymptomatic Erythematous Plaque in an Outdoorsman. Cutis, April 2024.
    Summary: Clinical vignette of an outdoor-activity-related dermatologic presentation, highlighting diagnostic considerations.

  5. Barker C, McGovern TW, Elston DM. Botanical Briefs: Phototoxic Fig Trees. Cutis, April 2024.
    Summary: Educational brief describing plant‑induced phototoxic dermatoses related to fig tree exposures.

  6. Barker C, Sattele L, Strat N, Snyder A, Siegel M, Wine Lee L. Dupilumab as Treatment for Actinic Prurigo. JAAD Case Reports, March 2024.
    Summary: Case series documenting success of dupilumab in treating refractory actinic prurigo, offering mechanistic and therapeutic insights.

  7. Barker C, Bruner E, Self S, Elston D. U‑Serrated and N‑Serrated Patterns in Bullous Pemphigoid, Epidermolysis Bullosa Acquisita, and Bullous Lupus: A Retrospective Observational Study. Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Feb 2024.
    Summary: Large DIF study examining serrated immunofluorescence patterns to refine diagnostic thresholds for bullous dermatoses—finding n-serration not exclusionary for lupus and low sensitivity of u-serration for bullous lupus.

  8. Barker C, Alshaikh H, Elston D. Dermatology Practice Updates in Mycobacterial Disease. International Journal of Dermatology, Dec 2023.
    Summary: Review article summarizing emerging diagnostic and treatment modalities in dermatologic manifestations of mycobacterial infection.

  9. Chung C, Barker C, Mukherjee R, et al. The Impact of Nurse Navigation on Timeliness to Treatment for Benign Breast Pathology. Breast Cancer Research and Treatment, Aug 2023.
    Summary: Study linking nurse navigation programs with shorter referral-to-treatment intervals in high-risk benign breast lesions.

  10. Lateef A, Barker C, Snyder A, et al. Adverse events seen with fillers. Dermatology Reviews, July 2023.
    Summary: Review of complications associated with cosmetic fillers, with recommendations for prevention and management.

Conclusion

Dr. Catherine Shirer Barker stands out as an exceptionally strong candidate for a Best Researcher Award, particularly in early-career or resident categories. Her work bridges clinical dermatology, social determinants of health, and translational science with notable clarity, productivity, and compassion. With continued trajectory toward independent funding and broader-scale research leadership, she is poised to become a national leader in dermatologic research.

 

Hoon Hur | Dermatological treatment | Best Researcher Award

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Dr Hoon Hur | Dermatological treatment | Best Researcher Award

Dr Hoon Hur, Choice Dermatology Clinic, South Korea

Dr. Hoon Hur, M.D., Ph.D., is a distinguished dermatologist from Seoul, South Korea, currently serving as the Chairman of Choice Dermatology Clinic and President of The Korean Society for Clinical Therapeutic Dermatology, which encompasses 1,400 Korean dermatologists. Dr. Hur has an illustrious career marked by his pioneering work in the treatment of pigmentary skin disorders. His innovative therapies, including the Golden Parameter Therapy (GPT) and Optimal Melanocytic Suicide Parameter Therapies (OMS-1 to OMS-4 PT), have set new standards in dermatology. With a career spanning decades, Dr. Hur has contributed extensively to both clinical practice and academic research, authoring numerous papers on a variety of dermatological conditions. His dedication to advancing dermatological treatments and his leadership within the field have earned him widespread recognition, including multiple awards for his contributions to clinical education.

Publication Profile

Scopus

Strengths for the Award

  1. Extensive Education and Training: Dr. Hoon Hur has a robust academic background with multiple degrees, including a Doctor of Medicine, Master of Medical Science, and Ph.D. in Medical Science, all from HanYang University Medical College. This solid foundation is further strengthened by his hands-on training as a Dermatology intern and resident.
  2. Innovative Contributions: Dr. Hoon Hur has made significant contributions to dermatology, particularly in the treatment of pigmentary skin disorders. His development of multiple therapies, including the Golden Parameter Therapy (GPT) and the Optimal Melanocytic Suicide Parameter Therapies (OMS-1 to OMS-4 PT), demonstrates his innovation and expertise in the field.
  3. Leadership and Influence: As the president of The Korean Society for Clinical Therapeutic Dermatology, Dr. Hur leads an organization of 1,400 dermatologists, highlighting his leadership skills and influence within the medical community.
  4. Recognition and Awards: Dr. Hur has received multiple best lecture awards from The Korean Society for Clinical Therapeutic Dermatology (2015-2018), reflecting his ability to effectively communicate his research and knowledge to peers.
  5. Prolific Publishing: Dr. Hur has authored numerous papers on various pigmentary disorders, contributing valuable knowledge to the dermatological community.

Areas for Improvement

  1. International Recognition: While Dr. Hur is highly regarded in South Korea, increasing his visibility and recognition on an international level could further strengthen his candidacy for a global award like the Best Researcher Award.
  2. Broader Research Focus: While Dr. Hur’s focus on pigmentary disorders is commendable, diversifying his research interests could showcase his versatility and adaptability as a researcher.
  3. Collaborations: Engaging in more international collaborations and joint research projects could expand his influence and showcase his work on a global platform.

 

Education 

Dr. Hoon Hur’s educational journey is deeply rooted in HanYang University Medical College, where he pursued all of his academic degrees. He earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree from 1978 to 1984, followed by a Master of Medical Science (1985-1987). Driven by a passion for advancing medical knowledge, Dr. Hur continued his academic pursuit, earning a Ph.D. in Medical Science from HanYang University Medical College between 1991 and 1994. This comprehensive educational background laid the foundation for his expertise in dermatology, particularly in the treatment of pigmentary skin disorders. His academic excellence is reflected in his innovative contributions to dermatology, including the development of cutting-edge therapies. Dr. Hur’s education has equipped him with the knowledge and skills necessary to lead advancements in his field and contribute to both clinical practice and academic research.

Experience 

Dr. Hoon Hur’s professional experience is both extensive and distinguished. He began his career with an internship and residency at HanYang University Medical Center, specializing in dermatology. Following his residency, Dr. Hur served as Chairman of the Department of Dermatology at Daejun Army Hospital during his military service from 1989 to 1991. In 1991, he established Hoon Hur’s Dermatology Clinic, where he served as Chairman until 2010. His leadership continued with the founding of Choice Dermatology Clinic in 2012, where he currently holds the position of Chairman. Additionally, Dr. Hur has been the President of The Korean Society for Clinical Therapeutic Dermatology since 2017, leading 1,400 dermatologists in advancing clinical practice and research. His career is marked by his innovative contributions to dermatology and his commitment to improving patient care through both clinical practice and leadership within the medical community.

Awards and Honors 

Dr. Hoon Hur’s contributions to dermatology have been recognized through numerous awards and honors. He received the Best Lecture Award from The Korean Society for Clinical Therapeutic Dermatology for four consecutive years, from 2015 to 2018. These awards highlight his exceptional ability to educate and inspire his peers in the field of dermatology. Dr. Hur’s innovative work in treating pigmentary skin disorders, particularly through the development of therapies such as the Golden Parameter Therapy (GPT) and the Optimal Melanocytic Suicide Parameter Therapies (OMS-1 to OMS-4 PT), has earned him widespread acclaim. His leadership as President of The Korean Society for Clinical Therapeutic Dermatology and his ongoing commitment to advancing dermatological science and education continue to be recognized by his peers and the broader medical community. These accolades underscore Dr. Hur’s impact on both clinical practice and medical education.

Research Focus 

Dr. Hoon Hur’s research is primarily focused on the treatment of pigmentary skin disorders, an area where he has made significant contributions through both clinical practice and academic research. His innovative therapies, including the Golden Parameter Therapy (GPT) and the Optimal Melanocytic Suicide Parameter Therapies (OMS-1 to OMS-4 PT), have revolutionized the treatment of conditions such as Cafe au lait spots, Partial unilateral lentiginosis, Becker’s nevus, Congenital melanocytic nevus, Ota’s nevus, Hori’s nevus, Riehl’s melanosis, and Melasma. Dr. Hur’s research extends beyond treatment to include the development of new techniques for diagnosing and managing pigmentary disorders. He has authored numerous papers on these topics, contributing to the scientific understanding and clinical management of these conditions. His work continues to influence the field of dermatology, driving advancements in treatment methodologies and improving patient outcomes worldwide.

Publication Top Notes

“Cafe au lait spot treatment: A novel approach” 📄

“Partial unilateral lentiginosis: Clinical outcomes and therapeutic strategies” 📑

“Becker’s nevus: Comprehensive analysis and management” 📚

“Congenital melanocytic nevus: Long-term treatment efficacy” 📘

“Ota’s nevus: Innovations in laser therapy” 📰

“Hori’s nevus: Optimal treatment protocols” 📖

“Riehl’s melanosis: Clinical study and new findings” 📜

“Erythema ab igne: Diagnostic challenges and solutions” 📗

 

Conclusion

Dr. Hoon Hur is a highly accomplished dermatologist with a strong track record of academic achievement, innovative research, and leadership in the field of dermatology. His contributions, particularly in developing new therapies for pigmentary skin disorders, are noteworthy and demonstrate his potential as a candidate for the Best Researcher Award. To further solidify his candidacy, Dr. Hur could benefit from expanding his research impact globally and diversifying his research portfolio. Overall, he is a strong contender for the award, given his extensive experience, innovation, and leadership in dermatology.