Clinical Research

Clinical Trials

The Clinical Immunology Research Center participates in cutting edge studies of the newest treatments for autoimmune, rheumatic and allergic diseases. In addition to conventional drug studies aimed to improve the efficacy and safety of current therapies, our clinical research center also carries out experimental protocols of particular interest for patients not responding to conventional therapy. The Division currently has over 13 active clinical trials in progress plus several active clinical research projects.

Research studies are conducted by Division physicians and a nurse study coordinator. All research is monitored by the FDA and by the institution's human subject review board or the Western IRB. We currently have several clinical research teams with active studies.

Patients have the option to participate in any appropriate open study. However, patients are also under no obligation to participate and choosing not to participte will in no way affect their continued relationship with the clinical team. Anyone who would like more information can contact a clinical study coordinator.

Jennifer Anolik, M.D.,Ph.D.
Dr. Anolik is currently conducting clinical trials in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematous.

R. John Looney, M.D.
Dr. Looney is currently conducting clinical trials in rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematous.

Christopher Ritchlin, M.D.
Dr. Ritchlin is currently conducting clinical trials in rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

Clinical Research

In addition to clinical trials, several faculty in the Allergy/Immunology and Rheumatology Division are also conducting clinical research projects which will broaden our understanding of rheumatologic diseases and osteoporosis.

Allan Anandarajah, M.D.
Dr. Anandarajah is currently developing and validating a MRI scoring system for rheumatoid arthritis. The scoring system will be used to evaluate changes in MRI findings following anti-TNF therapy in patients. He is also interested in studying generalized bone loss in psoriatic arthritis.

R. John Looney, M.D.
Dr. Looney is interested in translational research in autoimmune disease especially B cell depletion.

Darren Tabechian, M.D.
Dr. Tabechian is interested in musculoskeletal ultrasound research and education as well clinical research in rheumatoid arthritis.

Ralf Thiele, M.D.
Dr. Thiele is currently conducting clincial research.

Clinical Research Fellowship

The AIR Division colloborates with the Department of Dermatology here at the University. An exciting research opportunity currently exists in the Department of Dermatology for a medical resident with a future interest in Allergy and Immunology.

The fellow will be involved in industry-sponsored and NIH-funded human clinical trials and will function as the primary study coordinator and sub-investigator. (S)he will acquire proficiency in all aspects of clinical research.

The research focus of this fellowship is on allergic skin diseases particularly atopic dermatitis/eczema and chronic urticaria. Fellows will have the opportunity to participate in the departmental didactic sessions and other academic opportunities.

Start Date: May to July 2013.
Length of Fellowship: 1- 2 yrs.
Stipend & Benefits: commensurate with experience.
Qualifications: Must have MD degree from a US Medical School. Prefer individuals who have completed an internship or PGY1 year and USMLE step 3.

If interested please send: CV with at least two to three individuals who can provide a letter of recommendation to Lisa_Beck@URMC.Rochester.edu

Director: Lisa A. Beck, MD – Professor of Dermatology and Medicine at URMC

Co-Director: Anna De Benedetto, MD

Clinical Trials

Access specific Clinical Trials at the University of Rochester

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Photo courtesy of Jay Capers, Democrat and Chronicle