Tashmeeta Ahad, MD, is the first-ever recipient of the Dr. Mercy Alexis Research Grant in Skin of Color Dermatology from Cerave and the Canadian Dermatology Foundation (CDF).
Dr. Ahad is a clinical instructor and director of translational photomedicine research at The University of British Columbia (UBC) Department of Dermatology and Skin Science. The grant is for her project on “longitudinal non-invasive optical biopsy of keratinocyte cancers to monitor efficacy and response to treatment.”
This initiative celebrates the life and memory of Canada’s first Black female dermatologist, Dr. Mercy Akuffo Alexis. Growing up in Ghana and later in the U.K. and the Netherlands, Dr. Alexis practiced dermatology in Toronto for more than four decades and was recognized by her peers as a visionary in her field. Her legacy will continue to leave an enduring impact on the profession of dermatology, the many students, colleagues, and organizations she touched throughout her career. Most notably on her son, Dr. Andrew Alexis, Professor of Clinical Dermatology and Vice-Chair for Diversity and Inclusion for the Department of Dermatology at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City.
“My mother was a trailblazer and a true inspiration to me,” says Dr. Alexis in a news release. “I am deeply touched that she is being honored in such a way and that her mission of inclusivity can live on through this research grant.”
“At CeraVe, we firmly believe in research that pushes the boundaries of science to help Canadian doctors provide care for all,” says Julie Horil, General Manager at CeraVe Canada. “This landmark partnership with the CDF honours our commitment to addressing need gaps in dermatological care to improve quality of life for a diverse patient population.”
Corporate donor support such as this enables the fostering of new research and talent by the CDF and ensures future excellence in scientific discoveries, new treatments, and education that benefits the specialty and patients alike.
“On behalf of all at CDF, thank you to CeraVe for their generous support of dermatology research in Canada. I look forward to witnessing the beginning of this historic grant,” adds Dr. Youwhen Zhou, President of the Canadian Dermatology Foundation.
For more information about CDF Research Grants, please visit: https://cdf.ca/
