Dr. Michael E. Kuligowski is a globally experienced physician-executive with over 40 years of leadership in dermatology, clinical research, and pharmaceutical medicine. With a rare combination of medical expertise, academic excellence, and corporate leadership across the U.S. and Europe, he is recognized as a thought leader in dermatologic drug development and a strategic advisor in global clinical operations.
Currently serving as Vice President of Dermatology, Medical Science and Strategy at Thermo Fisher Scientific, Dr. Kuligowski provides medical oversight and strategic direction for clinical trials across a wide range of dermatologic indications. His work spans acne vulgaris, atopic dermatitis, vitiligo, alopecia areata, chronic urticaria, hidradenitis suppurativa, psoriasis, fungal infections, and aesthetic indications including dermal fillers and botulinum toxin. In addition to his corporate leadership, he contributes to the industry as a Board Director of Dermatologists in the Industry (DII) and as a Scientific and Medical Advisory Board Member for Dermaliq Therapeutics.
Dr. Kuligowski’s career is distinguished by his leadership roles at world-renowned pharmaceutical and biotech organizations. Prior to his current role, he served as Executive Medical Director at Incyte, where he led the end-to-end development of Opzelura (ruxolitinib cream) for atopic dermatitis and vitiligo—from early-stage clinical trials through successful FDA approval. He has also held senior roles at Merz North America, GSK’s dermatology unit (Stiefel), Pfizer, Novartis, Eisai, Galderma, and Astellas, where he directed global programs in dermatology, immunology, hepatology, and infectious diseases.
Throughout his career, Dr. Kuligowski has demonstrated expertise in clinical trial design, strategic planning, global regulatory submissions, cross-functional team leadership, and due diligence assessments. His broad international exposure includes leadership of medical teams and clinical programs across the U.S., Europe, Asia, Latin America, Australia, and the Middle East.
A graduate of the Medical University of Warsaw, Dr. Kuligowski earned his MD, PhD in medical sciences, and completed a post-doctoral research fellowship in immunoelectron microscopy in France. He holds an MBA from Webster University in St. Louis and is a board-certified specialist in Pharmaceutical Medicine and Dermatology & Venereology.
He has authored numerous scientific papers and presented at global conferences, sharing insights on dermatologic innovation, immunodermatology, and regulatory strategy. He is fluent in English, Dutch, and Polish, with basic proficiency in French and Russian.
Dr. Kuligowski is a long-standing member of leading industry associations, including the American Academy of Dermatology, Society for Investigative Dermatology, and the European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology.
Passionate about continuous learning and international collaboration, Dr. Kuligowski balances his professional pursuits with personal interests in swimming, boating, horseback riding, travel, and reading international political media. He is committed to leveraging his extensive experience and medical expertise through board service and advisory roles, supporting innovative organizations focused on improving patient outcomes in dermatology and beyond.
Character:
Dr. Michael Kuligowski is a principled and purpose-driven leader who brings integrity, professionalism, and dedication to every role he serves.
Knowledge: He possesses deep expertise in dermatology, pharmaceutical medicine, and clinical research, backed by over 40 years of global experience and academic achievement.
Strategic: Dr. Kuligowski has a proven ability to lead complex drug development programs from concept to approval, driving innovation and long-term value across diverse therapeutic areas.
Communication: He is an effective communicator and collaborator, skilled at engaging cross-functional teams, regulatory authorities, and industry stakeholders with clarity and confidence.
