Andrew Kowalczyk

Andrew Kowalczyk, PhD, is an Endowed Professor in the Department of Dermatology and Professor in the Department of Cell and Biological Systems at Penn State College of Medicine. His research focuses on molecular mechanisms of cell adhesion, particularly desmosomes and cadherins, and their roles in skin blistering diseases like pemphigus vulgaris. He employs interdisciplinary approaches integrating cell biology, dermatology, and molecular pharmacology.

His recent publications (2024-2025) emphasize:

• Desmosome-related disease mechanisms and therapeutic targets
• Endoplasmic reticulum stress in autoimmune skin disorders
• Ubiquitin-mediated regulation of cadherins

He received the Dean's Award for Excellence in Teaching (2024) and leads active NIH-funded projects, including a study on keratinocyte adhesion in pemphigus vulgaris (2023-2025).

As Principal Investigator, he coordinates multi-institutional collaborations and mentors researchers in skin biology and cell adhesion pathways.