DERMATOLOGY RESEARCH INSTITUTE
NEWPORT BEACH, CALIFORNIA
Our Center
Pioneering Research for Healthier Skin
The Dermatology Research Institute (DRI) represents a commitment to advancing the science of skin health and dermatological care. Located in the heart of Newport Beach, California, our state–of–the–art facility brings together leading researchers, clinicians, and medical professionals dedicated to transforming dermatological treatments.
Our mission is to bridge the gap between cutting–edge research and real–world applications, ensuring that breakthrough discoveries translate into improved patient outcomes. Through rigorous clinical studies and innovative research methodologies, we are at the forefront of developing next–generation treatments for a wide spectrum of dermatological conditions.
At the Dermatology Research Institute (DRI), we believe that every patient deserves access to the most advanced care possible. Our research studies not only contribute to scientific knowledge but also provide participants with early access to promising new treatments that may not yet be available to the general public.
Participate in Clinical Research
Join us in advancing medicine through safe, ethical clinical trials. Your participation helps develop future treatments and medications
to restore appearance, confidence, and a healthy quality of life.
Expert Medical Care
Receive study-related care from qualified medical professionals at our cutting-edge facility. Our experienced team monitors your progress throughout the entire study, ensuring your safety and wellbeing remain our top priority.
No Cost Participation
All study-related procedures, medications, and consultations are provided at no cost to you. We believe financial barriers should never prevent participation in potentially life-changing research. We reward you with payment for participation.
Advance Medical Science
Your participation directly contributes to the development of future treatments that could help millions. Clinical research studies are crucial in introducing innovative solutions to the public and combating illnesses.
Why Join a Clinical Trial?
Access Innovative Treatments
Gain early access to new medications and treatment options before they become widely available to the public.
Comprehensive Medical Monitoring
Receive close medical supervision and regular health assessments throughout your participation in the study.
Contribute to Medical Progress
Play a vital role in the development of treatments that could improve the lives of countless future patients.
Detailed Health Information
Gain deeper insights into your health condition through comprehensive testing and medical evaluations.
Personalized Care
Receive individualised attention from a dedicated research team focused on your specific condition and needs.
Make a Difference
Help shape the future of dermatological care and potentially save lives through your valuable contribution to science.
What to Expect in a Clinical Trial
Screening & Enrollment
Our medical team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation to determine if you're eligible for the study. This includes a detailed medical history review, physical examination, and necessary laboratory tests.
Study Participation
Throughout the study, you'll receive the investigational treatment or medication while our team closely monitors your progress. Regular visits ensure your safety and track the treatment's effectiveness.
Safety First
All clinical studies follow strict ethical guidelines and regulatory oversight. Your safety and wellbeing are our highest priorities, with continuous monitoring by our medical professionals.
Post-Study Care
After completing the study, we continue to monitor your health and provide necessary follow-up care to ensure the best possible outcomes for your dermatological condition.
Sponsors
If you’ve heard the momentum coming out of Newport Beach California — it’s real.
Dermatology Research Institute (DRI) is Newport Beach’s premier dermatology and aesthetics-dedicated private research center — intentionally built to deliver speed, precision, and sponsor confidence across Phase II–IV dermatology and aesthetic programs.
Why Sponsors Choose DRI
- Dermatology & Aesthetic Exclusivity: Eczema, psoriasis, alopecia areata, hidradenitis suppurativa, acne, rosacea, injectables, lasers, and non-melanoma skin cancer.
- Unmatched Patient Access: 50,000+ active dermatology patients in our database.
- Proven Execution: 15+ years of research leadership and 80+ completed Phase I–IV clinical trials.
- Fast Start-Up. Fast Enrollment.: Consistently recognized by sponsors as a “CRA’s dream site” and “fastest start-up in company history.”
- Elite Newport Beach Environment: Ocean-view clinic in the Newport Beach Medical Plaza — a premium experience for patients and monitors.
Our Sponsor Experience Upgrade
DRI has enhanced investigator coverage, refined prescreening systems, and upgraded operational workflow — ensuring smoother start-ups, accelerated enrollment, and consistently high-quality data delivery.
Medical Team
We are proud to collaborate with leading pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, and healthcare organizations committed to advancing dermatological science
Dr. Mia Gatti, DMSC, PA-C
CEO & President | Principal Investigator
Dermatology Research Institute – Newport Beach, California
Dr. Mia Gatti, DMSc, PA-C, is a dermatology and dermasurgery physician assistant, clinical research leader, and founder of Dermatology Research Institute (DRI) in Newport Beach, California. With nearly two decades of experience in dermatology clinical research, Dr. Gatti has built a reputation for advancing innovative therapies while delivering exceptional patient-centered care.
Throughout her career, Dr. Gatti has participated in more than 100 Phase I–IV dermatology clinical trials, contributing to the development of new treatments for a wide range of dermatologic and aesthetic conditions. Her research experience spans diseases including atopic dermatitis, psoriasis, acne vulgaris, rosacea, hidradenitis suppurativa, skin cancer, and advanced aesthetic dermatology, as well as device and injectable studies.
As CEO and President of Dermatology Research Institute, Dr. Gatti leads one of Southern California’s most innovative private dermatology research centers. Under her leadership, DRI has become known for its high-performing enrollment, rigorous regulatory standards, and concierge-level patient experience, making it a trusted partner for pharmaceutical sponsors and contract research organizations.
Dr. Gatti works closely with Dr. Soheil Simzar, MD, a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon, combining their extensive clinical and research expertise to advance dermatologic innovation. Together, they lead an elite research team dedicated to delivering high-quality clinical trials while providing patients with early access to groundbreaking therapies.
In addition to her research leadership, Dr. Gatti has performed over 10,000 dermatologic surgical procedures, including general excisions, melanoma removal, Mohs reconstruction, scar revision, and reconstructive procedures. She also specializes in advanced aesthetic treatments including neuromodulators, dermal fillers, laser and light therapies, and body-contouring technologies.
Dr. Gatti is a published author in peer-reviewed dermatology journals, with research focused on skin cancer and dermatologic innovation. She is known for combining clinical expertise with scientific leadership to improve dermatologic treatments and surgical techniques.
Prior to founding Dermatology Research Institute, Dr. Gatti served as Co-Founder and Director of Dermatology Clinical Trials in Newport Beach and previously held research leadership roles in dermatologic clinical trials in San Diego.
Dr. Gatti earned her Doctor of Medical Science (DMSc) with a focus on dermatology and research and graduated at the top of her class. She received her Master’s Degree in Medical Science from Nova Southeastern University’s Physician Assistant Program, where she trained in dermatology and dermatologic surgery under leading dermatologists and plastic surgeons. She earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Biology (Pre-Medicine) from the University of Tampa, where she served as Vice President of the Biology Honors Fraternity, Tri-Beta.
Today, Dr. Gatti continues to lead cutting-edge dermatology clinical trials while advancing the mission of Dermatology Research Institute.
Dr. Soheil Simzar, M.D., FAAD, FASMS, FASDS
Board-Certified Dermatologist | Fellowship-Trained Mohs Surgeon | Clinical Research Investigator
Dr. Soheil Simzar is a board-certified dermatologist and fellowship-trained Mohs micrographic surgeon with more than 20 years of experience in dermatology and clinical research. Renowned for his precision in skin cancer surgery and advanced cosmetic dermatology, Dr. Simzar brings a unique combination of surgical expertise, academic leadership, and extensive clinical trial experience to the Dermatology Research Institute (DRI) in Newport Beach, California.
Throughout his career, Dr. Simzar has served as an investigator in over 45 Phase II–IV dermatology clinical trials, contributing to the development and advancement of innovative therapies for conditions including psoriasis, eczema, acne, vitiligo, skin cancer, and aesthetic dermatology. His work in clinical research has helped bring cutting-edge treatments from development to real-world patient care.
Dr. Simzar currently collaborates with Dr. Mia Gatti, DMSc, PA-C, at Dermatology Research Institute, where they lead an elite research team focused on high-quality dermatologic clinical trials, patient-centered care, and sponsor excellence. Their site integrates concierge-level patient experience with rigorous scientific standards, making DRI a premier destination for pharmaceutical partners and patients seeking access to innovative therapies.
In addition to his clinical and research leadership, Dr. Simzar serves as a Clinical Instructor at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. He is a Diplomate of the American Board of Dermatology and a Fellow of several prestigious organizations including the American Academy of Dermatology, the American Society for Mohs Surgery, and the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery.
Dr. Simzar graduated with Alpha Omega Alpha honors from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine and earned summa cum laude distinction in neuroscience from UCLA. His academic achievements are complemented by numerous peer-reviewed publications and national presentations in dermatologic surgery, aesthetics, and clinical research.
Recognized as a trusted leader in dermatology, Dr. Simzar combines surgical mastery, aesthetic artistry, and scientific rigor to deliver exceptional outcomes in both patient care and clinical trials.
360 San Miguel Drive, Suite 503Newport Beach, California 92660 info@dri-oc.com (949) 781-DERM (3376)