The skin is the largest organ in the human body. At any one time around 23-33% of the UK population have a skin problem that could benefit from medical care. The quality of life of people with diseases such as psoriasis and eczema is significantly impaired, and such impairment can be greater than life-threatening conditions such as cancer. Melanoma is the fifth most common cancer in the United Kingdom.

There is a strong tradition of research, innovation, education and high quality clinical service provision in Dundee dermatology. We aim to unify and strengthen the many academic and clinical interests through development of an Institute of Dermatology. This development is supported by the Tayside Academic Health Science Partnership, the University of Dundee and NHS Tayside. This aligns with the National Clinical Strategy and Realistic Medicine Vision.

The activities of those involved in skin disease in Tayside are spread across many areas, including the University of Dundee Life Sciences, Drug Discovery Unit, Medical School, NHS Tayside dermatology and access projects extending to Pitlochry, Crieff, Arbroath and Stracathro. Many groups of professionals are involved; bench scientists, geneticists, doctors, nurses, physicists, photobiologists, epidemiologists, statisticians and, importantly, patients, carers and volunteers. There is an obvious need to maximise opportunities for networking, clinical/academic collaboration, and stimulation of translational and clinically effective research. Beyond this, however, there is recognition that strengthening of the collective identity of dermatology will help create and solidify the international brand of innovative dermatology in this region, and improve our ability to attract and retain world class talent for long term success.

The Discovery Institute of Dermatology will work to connect the NHS with academic organisations, local authorities, the third sector and industry to create the optimal conditions to grow the science and practice of skin medicine in our area.