Research

The Tara Miller Melanoma Center (TMMC) at the Abramson Cancer Center supports cutting edge melanoma research that aligns with the mission of the center. High risk high reward projects that emphasize team science and address an unmet need for melanoma patients are our focus. We are currently prioritizing 5 areas of research: taking novel approaches, predicting response, understanding melanoma metastasis, overcoming resistance, and employing combination therapies.

The TMMC leverages philanthropic donations, NCI funding, and institutional support to create a sustainable research program. With the generosity of the Tara Miller Melanoma Foundation, the Carol Cooper Gift and other donors, the TMMC can advance innovative research that bring new treatment options and hopefully cures for more melanoma patients.

Research is truly a team effort and includes basic scientists, clinical researchers, nurses, research staff, trainees, and patient advocates. For decades, the Wistar Institute, under Dr. Meenhard Herlyn's leadership, and University of Pennsylvania have been developing research programs in the effort to reduce the morbidity and mortality from melanoma and other skin cancers. Our Annual Wistar/UPENN Skin cancer retreat, monthly TMMC research seminar, and monthly SPORE meetings are opportunities to share ideas within the community.  Our research efforts are inspired by our patients.