Dr. Liang Deng

Dr. Liang Deng, MD, PhD, is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers, including melanoma, genetic skin disorders, drug hypersensitivity reactions, therapy-induced skin toxicity, and skin manifestations of infections in immune-compromised individuals. The majority of his patients have prior histories of skin cancer, and his clinical approach centers on three core priorities: delivering high-quality treatment for newly diagnosed skin cancers, performing thorough skin examinations for early detection, and educating patients on sun protection and skin self-examination. He utilizes whole-body photography for patients with many atypical moles and elevated melanoma risk, helping to identify new or changing lesions over time. Dr. Deng collaborates closely with colleagues across the melanoma disease management team, which includes specialists in medical oncology, clinical immunology, surgery, dermatology, and radiation oncology. He is also fluent in Mandarin Chinese.

In his laboratory, Dr. Deng investigates the interface between poxviruses and the immune system, with the goal of developing improved therapies for poxviruses and exploring their potential as oncolytic and immunotherapeutic agents. He is also interested in understanding the roles of apoptosis and autophagy in melanoma progression and resistance to treatment. His research has been supported by the National Institutes of Health, the Dermatology Foundation, the Northeast Biodefense Center, the American Skin Association, the Lucille Castori Center for Microbes, Inflammation, and Cancer, and research funds from the Dermatology Service and the Department of Medicine at Memorial Sloan Kettering.

Beyond his clinical and research work, Dr. Deng is committed to teaching and mentoring students, residents, and fellows in both the clinic and the laboratory. His dual training in medicine and scientific research positions him as a physician-scientist who bridges the gap between laboratory discovery and patient care, with a particular focus on improving outcomes for patients facing melanoma and other complex dermatologic conditions.