A University Medical Center Dermatologist was recently awarded a three year $200,000 research fellowship for his work in classifying skin cells. George Cotsarelis will use the award from the Howard Hughes Medical Institute to continue his research on stem cells in hair follicles. Cotsarelis said he received the fellowship because he had "a good track record with research done before." Cotsarelis said he is trying to better understand the stem cells since they are often the site on which cancer-causing agents act. "[I am trying to understand] why the stem cells become unregulated in growth and why there is tumor formation," Cotsarelis said. Members of the University's dermatology department said they were pleased with Cotsarelis' award. "The department is ecstatic over Dr. Cotsarelis winning the fellowship," Assistant to the Dermatology Chairperson Nancy Victor said. "It is very prestigious." Cotsarelis was one of 34 physicians selected from more than 150 to receive such a fellowship. Applications were sent in from all over the world, according to Howard Hughes Institute Spokesperson Tricia Anderson. Cotsarelis applied for the fellowship, which begins next year, last February. Although the fellowship lasts for three years, it must be renewed annually. All research will be conducted in the John Morgan Building, according to Cotsarelis. The Howard Hughes Medical Institute, located in Bethesda, Maryland, was founded in 1953 by the famous aviator. It is dedicated to advancing biomedical science and applying developments in science to disease and other health problems. Every year for the past three years the Howard Hughes Medical Institute has awarded 25 grants to "physician-scientists" in the areas of basic biological processes and disease mechanisms who wish to conduct additional research training before they become faculty members.
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