Dermatologist · Physician Leader · Healthcare Innovator
Falk Medical Director Director of Clinical Trials Associate Program Director Founder and Director, Advanced Dermatology Therapeutics Program University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Bridging clinical excellence, research innovation, and education of future healthcare leaders.
“Great medicine lives at the intersection of rigorous science, bold innovation, and genuine human connection. It’s what I strive to bring to every patient, every day.”
Trained & Affiliated At
Joe K. Tung, MD MBA is a board-certified dermatologist who leads some of University of Pittsburgh Medical Center's most dynamic clinical and research programs — and who genuinely loves what he does.
His path to medicine was shaped by a deep, early love of science. At seventeen, he was chosen to represent the United States of America at the 43rd International Chemistry Olympiad — a prestigious international competition held in Ankara, Turkey, with competitors from 71 different countries. Dr. Tung won an individual gold medal in the competition, and was honored to deliver the opening ceremony speech on behalf of all participants, speaking to the power of interdisciplinary thinking and the role of science in advancing human health — a conviction that has defined his path ever since. In 2014, he was invited by President Ma Ying-jeou back to his birthplace of Taiwan to discuss education reform.
Dr. Tung studied Molecular Biophysics and Biochemistry at Yale University, graduating magna cum laude, before earning his MD and MBA simultaneously at Harvard Medical School and Harvard Business School — graduating in the top 5% as a Baker Scholar. After completing his internal medicine internship at Brigham and Women's Hospital and his dermatology residency at UPMC, he joined the faculty.
As Medical Director of Falk Dermatology, Director of the Clinical Trials Unit, Associate Director of the Dermatology Residency Program, and Founder and Director of the Advanced Dermatology Therapeutics Program, Dr. Tung brings both scientific rigor and a deep commitment to his patients, residents, and colleagues. He believes great care is built on trust, curiosity, and the willingness to keep learning. He also has the distinct privilege of serving as Team Dermatologist for the NHL Pittsburgh Penguins.
Outside of medicine, Dr. Tung is a passionate traveler, golfer, and rock climber. He loves visiting museums, attending live sporting events, and finding every excuse to learn somewhere new.
Education & Training
Board Certified — American Board of Dermatology
Fellow — American Academy of Dermatology
Team Dermatologist — Pittsburgh Penguins · NHL
Leading a rheumatology-dermatology joint clinic, an inflammatory skin diseases clinic, and UPMC's Advanced Dermatology Therapeutics Program
Directing one of the most active dermatology research programs in the country, giving patients access to therapies not yet widely available
Combining clinical depth and business fluency to inform healthcare strategy, operations, and industry advisory work
Mentoring students, residents, and physicians from institutions across the country and lecturing internationally
Advancing skin cancer detection through AI-assisted diagnostics, next-generation biomarkers, and emerging therapeutics
Dr. Tung is a sought-after voice in dermatology — speaking at national and international conferences, contributing to major media outlets, and helping translate complex science for broader audiences.
Selected Press & Media
Invited Presentations
30+ regional, national, and international invited presentations, spanning inflammatory skin disease, clinical trial design, healthcare economics, AI in dermatology, and precision medicine.
Speaking Topics
"One of the highest levels of health care I can imagine; I was quick in, quick out, with reliable professional staff and excellent medical professionals."July 2026
"Dr. Joe Tung is an amazing physician. He takes the time to listen and answer questions."July 2026
"Dr. Tung is a very knowledgeable, kind, patient-focused physician. In addition, he was concerned for my privacy during my exam, which is very important to me."June 2026
"I was impressed and asked about my husband transferring services to this location."June 2026
"Dr. Tung is an excellent and caring physician and I appreciate his care and the care of his team at the Rheum/Derm clinic."June 2026
"Dr. Tung is outstanding. His bedside manner is perfect."April 2026
"Dr. Tung was very considerate, listened to my full back story, answered all my questions and clearly explained what treatment he recommended and why, including potential side effects. I had a very positive experience with him and will continue to see Dr. Tung for any dermatological issues I may have in the future."April 2026
"Dr. Tung totally impressed me. Don't lose this guy. We need him."April 2026
"This physician was extremely attentive and listened to all of our questions and provided answers. He made sure that we understood everything."April 2026
"From the medical assistant to the physician, very good and very informative, and listened to any questions. 10 out of 10."February 2026
"Dr. Tung is a very kind and helpful physician. I know he has had to push to get my medication covered by insurance and I really appreciate his efforts in that regard."February 2026
"I'm a bit of a medically complicated patient, but the doctor and others were thorough, listened, addressed my concerns, and helped me plan my care appropriately."January 2026
"Dr. Tung is professional, friendly, and an excellent provider. He knows my history, asks questions, answers questions, and gives suggestions on treatment."November 2025
"I am very thankful to have Dr. Tung. I had lymph-node-related melanoma almost 15 years ago, and he is very thorough, knowledgeable, professional and caring. I am a huge fan!"November 2025
"Wonderful experience with a provider that was new to me. Attentive, did not rush any part of the visit. I felt he truly cared and listened. Very calming presence."October 2025
"Very knowledgeable and charming doctor who explained his understanding of my problem and his treatment."October 2025
"The doctor and resident came up with a plan we both found acceptable. I felt like I was a part of the plan. You don't find many doctors like this anymore. Highly recommended!"September 2025
"Dr. Tung considers my concerns and invites my input into all treatment decisions. He always seems to remember my history and have my best interests in mind. For me, he's the ideal doctor."August 2025
"Dr. Tung is an outstanding dermatologist. He is very knowledgeable, professional, and polite. He explains every part of the exam and keeps the patient's privacy in the forefront."July 2025
"The care was terrific. Explanations were clear and easy to understand. Extremely pleased with the level of care."July 2025
"I have had advanced melanoma in the past. Dr. Tung clearly had read my chart and was extremely knowledgeable, informed, thorough and kind. He gets 11 out of 10 stars."February 2025
"I received more information about my scalp condition at this one appointment than any other appointment I have had."January 2025
"Best dermatologist I've been to in 20 years! Very professional beyond any other experience I've had."December 2024
"Dr. Tung made me feel very comfortable and respected me as a patient. He was very caring, easy to talk to, and extremely knowledgeable. I would highly recommend him."November 2024