Sarah Kern Whitley

Sarah Kern Whitley is an Assistant Professor at UMass Chan Medical School, affiliated with the T.H. Chan School of Medicine (Dermatology) and the Morningside Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences across multiple departments, including Immunology and Microbiology, Neuroscience, and Translational Science. She contributes to the NeuroNexus Institute and MD/PhD Program.

• BSc in Microbiology and Psychology (University of Michigan, Ann Arbor)
• MD and PhD in Immunology (University of Alabama, Birmingham)

Whitley’s research focuses on the intersection of dermatology and immunology, particularly the role of IL-17 and IL-23 signaling in skin immune homeostasis, autoimmune conditions like psoriasis, and inflammatory disorders such as hidradenitis suppurativa. Her work spans molecular mechanisms, cell migration, and epigenetic regulation of T helper cell lineages.

Her publications highlight trends in immunology (2010–2024), dermatology (2016–2024), and biochemistry (2001–2018). Key subfields include cytokine signaling, epigenetic instability of TH17 cells, RNA sequencing applications, and neuroimmunology of skin disorders.

Scientific Awards:

• Fellow of the American Academy of Dermatology (FAAD)

Advising & Collaborations: She mentors students through the MD/PhD Program and collaborates with researchers like David Kaplan (TH17 cell dynamics) and Casey Weaver (immunology). Her networks include experts in interleukin signaling, skin immunology, and proteomics.