Microbiome of Skin: The Unseen Community of Living Organisms Integral to Skin Health
Speaker: Dr. Paul Lawrence, Biocogent
Abstract: Dr. Paul Lawrence, Executive Director of Bioscience Research, Discovery, and Scientific Communications at Biocogent, will present The Unseen Community of Living Organisms Integral to Skin Health, an in-depth exploration of the skin microbiome and its evolving role in dermatological science and cosmetic innovation. This talk will examine the intricate microbial ecosystems residing on the skin, their role in skin health and disease, and the latest research on microbiome-targeted skincare approaches, including prebiotics, probiotics, and postbiotics. Dr. Lawrence will also discuss the challenges in defining “microbiome-friendly” formulations and highlight emerging frontiers in microbiome research that could shape the future of skincare.
Bio: Dr. Lawrence received his doctorate in molecular microbiology from Stony Brook University and before that obtained his Bachelor of Science degree in molecular biology from the University of New Mexico. During his career, he has conducted biological research in academia, industry, and for the United States government. He has executed anti-viral therapeutic and vaccine research projects at Brookhaven National Laboratory and the Plum Island Animal Disease Center. In industry, he has participated in contract biopharmaceutical projects for the former Collaborative Bioalliance as well as Dow Chemical. Dr. Lawrence was also the Director of DNA Production for the anti-counterfeiting biotechnology company, Applied DNA Sciences. Currently, he is the Executive Director of Bioscience Research, Discovery, and Scientific Communications for Biocogent, a developer and manufacturer of bio-active ingredients with cosmetic care applications. In his spare time, he is also an adjunct professor at two different colleges teaching microbiology to future nurses and doctors. He also volunteers as an associate technical editor for the Journal of Cosmetic Science and is currently the Chairperson of the Committee on Scientific Affairs for the Society of Cosmetic Chemists (SCC). He has also been an instructor for multiple courses with the SCC’s continuing education program (CEP). Over the course of his career, Dr. Lawrence has published more than 30 research manuscripts and review articles, more than 25 online science digests, and has authored a textbook chapter on the molecular pathogenesis of one of the world’s most infectious viruses.