After 43 years of service at the University of Iowa, Dr. Robert “Bob” Robinson has retired. Upon his retirement, Dr. Robinson has been appointed Professor Emeritus of Pathology.

Before joining the department in 1982, Dr. Robinson attended medical school at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, where he then attended Mayo’s Graduate School of Medicine for one year of residence in internal medicine before starting a four-year combined anatomic pathology PhD program. 

Dr. Robinson practiced general surgical pathology and cytology with specialization in diseases of the head and neck. Reflecting on his time at Iowa, he notes that while a lot has changed— primarily the switch from paper medical records to digital, and the advancements in sophistication of laboratory diagnosis— what has not changed is our department’s culture. A culture founded on unwavering dedication from patient care, medical education, and commitment to research activities— something that he remembers vividly when interviewing for that first job. While the department has not been immune to challenges and difficulties over time, that robust, supportive culture for the missions of an academic pathology department has carried through today, and one that will continue.

During Dr. Robinson’s tenure, he served in the faculty position as Professor of Pathology, with a special interest in Head and Neck Pathology with secondary appointments in Oral Pathology, Radiology and Medicine in the University of Iowa College of Dentistry and Medical Director of UIDL. He was an active member in several professional societies including the Iowa Association of Pathologists, CAP, ASCP, USCAP, and more, and was recognized for his expertise by “Best Doctors in America” in 2009–2010. He published his first book, “Head and Neck Pathology: Atlas for Histologic and Cytologic Diagnosis” in 2010.