Dental researcher awarded research professorship

The University of Florida Research Foundation has named Robert Caudle, Ph.D., as one of 33 Research Foundation Professors for 2012.

Caudle, a professor in the UF College of Dentistry’s oral and maxillofacial surgery department, was selected for his notable record of research and strong research agenda likely to lead to further distinction in his field. This three-year award garners a $5,000 annual salary supplement and a $3,000 grant.

The UF Research Foundation selects award winners based on recommendations from deans and department chairs and takes into account evaluations of research accomplishments evidenced by publication in scholarly journals, external funding and honors and awards.

Caudle, who joined the university in 1998, focuses his research on the molecular and physiological processes that initiate and maintain chronic pain with a goal of developing novel strategies to avoid onset of chronic pain and new therapies to treat chronic pain once it is established.

“Dr. Caudle came to our college as part of a Health Science Center pain initiative focused on improving our understanding of basic pain mechanisms. Pain represents arguably the most common and costly public health condition in the United States. Rob’s research is critical to improving our understanding of pain which should ultimately lead to improvements in pain management and the quality of life for the millions affected by this condition,” said Teresa A. Dolan, D.D.S., M.P.H., professor and dean. “It is of fundamental importance in all areas of health care and we’re proud to have Dr. Caudle and his research as part of our college program.”