Dr. Michael Piepkorn is a clinical dermatologist and dermatopathologist with more than 50 years of experience, specializing in the diagnosis of complex skin diseases. His expertise focuses on skin pathology, particularly melanoma and psoriasis. He currently evaluates skin biopsies at Dermatopathology Northwest in Seattle and serves patients through a specialized pigmented lesion and melanoma clinic at the University of Washington’s Roosevelt facility.

Over the course of his career, Michael Piepkorn, MD, has earned board certifications in pathology, dermatology, and dermatopathology, reflecting his broad training across related medical fields. He has held teaching and research positions at both the University of Utah and the University of Washington. His scientific impact includes helping identify the essential familial melanoma gene p16/CDKN2A, a discovery that advanced understanding of the biology of hereditary skin cancer.

Michael Piepkorn, PhD, has published more than 170 scientific articles on topics including diagnostic accuracy in melanocytic lesions, second-opinion strategies, staging methods, and changes in melanoma classification terminology. His research has influenced how pathologists approach challenging skin tumors and how to improve consistency in interpretation. In recognition of his contributions, he received a distinguished honor from the American Society of Dermatopathology in 2004 for excellence in melanoma research.

Alongside his scientific achievements, he has guided numerous trainees in dermatology and dermatopathology, supporting their development in both clinical and laboratory settings. His dedication to teaching has brought him multiple awards from the University of Washington, and his influence continues through the Michael Piepkorn Endowed Chair in Dermatology Research. His mentorship has strengthened the next generation of specialists working to advance the study of melanoma and other skin diseases.

Dr. Piepkorn completed his medical degree at the University of Minnesota in 1973 and earned his PhD at the University of Washington in 1980, later holding joint faculty roles in Dermatology and Pathology. He completed residency training at UW and previously studied at Gustavus Adolphus College. Outside his medical work, he enjoys gardening, landscaping, backpacking, mountaineering, and photographing natural landscapes. These interests highlight his appreciation for nature and his commitment to staying active and connected to the outdoors.