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RNAi in the Skin

The Tang Lab is dedicated to innovating next-generation oligonucleotides to address unmet needs in dermatology

Postdoctoral positions are available. For applications, please send a copy of your CV and cover letter to qi.tang@umassmed.edu.


Oligonucleotides, including small interfering RNAs (siRNAs), antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs), splice-switching oligonucleotides (SSOs), aptamers, and antagomirs, are an emerging class of modalities that are transforming the development of medicine. 

At UMass Chan, we pioneer the clinical translation of oligonucleotide-based technologies in dermatology. Our recent collaborative efforts (Tang, et al. Nat. Commun. 2023) between the Department of Dermatology and the RNA Therapeutics Institute have led to the siRNA drug targeting JAK1 entering clinical trials for inflammatory skin diseases.

The clinical translation of oligonucleotides requires effective delivery strategies and a deep understanding of skin biology. The research areas in the Tang Lab include: (1) oligonucleotide engineering for topical and systemic skin delivery; (2) the pathophysiology of skin disorders; and (3) RNA-based regulatory mechanisms in skin health. 

Our mission is to bring rationally developed oligonucleotides to millions of patients affected by skin disorders. We believe that our expertise at UMass Chan places us at the forefront of making this vision a reality.

LAB MEMBERS

Qi Tang

Qi Tang, Principal Investigator

PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Univesity of Rhode Island

qi.tang@umassmed.edu 

Benjamin Chang

Benjamin Chang, PhD Candidate in Biomedical Sciences

BS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University

Research interests: chemical engineering of oligonucleotides for skin delivery

benjamin.chang1@umassmed.edu

ALUMNI

Sarah Winter, Research Associate (2025-2026); BS in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Massachusetts Amherst