Dr. Peter Higgins received his bachelor's degree and medical degrees from Duke University, and completed a Ph.D. in molecular cancer biology at Duke. He completed a fellowship in gastroenterology at the University of Michigan in 2004, completed an M.Sc. in Clinical Research Design and Statistical Analysis at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, and joined the University of Michigan faculty the same year. Dr. Higgins has previously served as the IBD editor for the American Journal of Gastroenterology, the chair of the AGA Immunology, Microbiology, and IBD section, and chaired the University of Michigan GI Division Research Advisory Council. His research focuses on inflammatory bowel disease, which includes Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. He is interested in the molecular mechanisms of intestinal fibrosis, which leads to intestinal blockages and surgery. Dr. Higgins studies novel approaches to Acute Severe Ulcerative Colitis and strictures in Crohn's disease. His clinical research includes studies on patient-reported outcomes in IBD, cell therapies in IBD, and biomarker-guided therapy in IBD. Dr. Higgins' research interests are complemented by his clinical interest in improving the quality of care of patients with IBD. He served as a member of the AGA IBD Quality Measures Committee, and has participated in the development of national guidelines for high quality IBD care. Dr. Higgins currently serves as the NSAC (National Scientific Advisory Committee) chair of the Crohn's and Colitis Foundation. Dr. Higgins has received many honors and awards, including the AGA IBD Clinical Research Excellence Award.

Detection and measurement of inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Mechanisms of intestinal fibrosis, and measurement of fibrosis with ultrasound and biomarkers. Development of novel anti-fibrotic and anti-inflammatory therapies. Patient-reported outcomes in IBD.