In the United States, about one in 50 Americans is diagnosed with melanoma, and melanoma incidence increases at an estimated rate of three percent annually. The Chen lab has primary research interests in the environmental and genetic factors contributing to melanoma development. Dr. Chen’s research is focusing on the reasons redheaded people are more likely to develop melanoma. Melanoma disproportionately affects redheads, as mutations in the melanocortin-1 receptor (MC1R), known to control the melanocyte cells producing pigment, make these redheads unable to tan or have pigmentation to protect their skin. Studies revealed that individuals carrying just one MC1R RHC-variant have nearly a 40% increased risk of melanoma. Currently, the lab is using physiologically relevant animal models to study the role of MC1R in melanoma development. Expected outcomes will bring novel insights into the mechanisms of melanoma development and identify novel intervention strategies to combat melanoma.