Dermatologist · Physician Leader · Healthcare Innovator
Falk Medical Director, Director of Clinical Trials & Associate Program Director 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, and Associate Director of the Dermatology Residency 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
Team Dermatologist — Pittsburgh Penguins · NHL
Leading a rheumatology-dermatology combined clinic and an inflammatory skin diseases clinic at UPMC
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
20+ regional, national, and international invited presentations, spanning inflammatory skin disease, clinical trial design, healthcare economics, AI in dermatology, and precision medicine.
Speaking Topics
"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
"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
"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