Rate Professor Diona Damian

Professional Summary: Professor Diona Damian

Professor Diona Damian is a distinguished dermatologist and academic at the University of Sydney, Australia, with a globally recognized expertise in skin cancer research and photobiology. Her work has significantly advanced the understanding of skin cancer prevention and treatment, particularly in the context of immunosuppression and ultraviolet radiation.

Academic Background and Degrees

Professor Damian holds the following qualifications:

• MBBS (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery), University of Sydney
• PhD in Medicine, University of Sydney, focusing on skin cancer and immunology
• Fellow of the Australasian College of Dermatologists (FACD)

Research Specializations and Academic Interests

Professor Damian’s research primarily focuses on:

• Skin cancer prevention and treatment, especially in high-risk populations such as organ transplant recipients
• Photobiology and the effects of ultraviolet radiation on skin
• Immunotherapy and novel therapeutic approaches for skin cancer
• Translational research bridging laboratory findings to clinical applications

Career History and Appointments

Professor Damian has held several prestigious positions, including:

• Professor of Dermatology, University of Sydney
• Head of Dermatology, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, Sydney
• Director of the Dermatology Research Laboratories, Bosch Institute, University of Sydney
• Clinical Academic at the Melanoma Institute Australia

Major Awards, Fellowships, and Honors

Her contributions to dermatology and skin cancer research have been recognized through numerous accolades, such as:

• Recipient of the Australasian College of Dermatologists’ Silver Medal for outstanding contributions to dermatology
• Multiple research grants from the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) of Australia
• Recognition for her work in skin cancer prevention by Cancer Council Australia

Key Publications

Professor Damian has authored and co-authored numerous high-impact publications in peer-reviewed journals. Some notable works include:

• Damian, D.L., et al. (2011). 'Nicotinamide for skin cancer chemoprevention in transplant recipients.' New England Journal of Medicine.
• Damian, D.L., et al. (2008). 'UV radiation and the skin: Immunosuppression and carcinogenesis.' Photochemical & Photobiological Sciences.
• Chen, A.C., Damian, D.L., et al. (2015). 'A Phase 3 Randomized Trial of Nicotinamide for Skin-Cancer Chemoprevention.' New England Journal of Medicine.

Influence and Impact on Academic Field

Professor Damian’s groundbreaking research on nicotinamide (Vitamin B3) as a chemopreventive agent for skin cancer has had a transformative impact on clinical practice, particularly for high-risk patients. Her work has influenced global guidelines for skin cancer prevention and management, and she is frequently cited in dermatology and oncology literature. Her studies on UV-induced immunosuppression have also provided critical insights into the mechanisms of skin carcinogenesis.

Public Lectures, Committees, and Editorial Contributions

Professor Damian is actively involved in the academic and medical community through:

• Delivering keynote addresses and invited lectures at international dermatology and oncology conferences
• Serving on advisory committees for skin cancer prevention with organizations like Cancer Council Australia
• Contributing as a reviewer and editorial board member for leading journals in dermatology and photobiology