M. David Rudd

M. David Rudd is a Professor in the Department of Psychology at the University of Memphis, recognized internationally for pioneering research in suicide prevention with particular expertise in military and veteran populations. His clinical work integrates evidence-based cognitive therapy with specialized risk assessment protocols.

His academic credentials include:

• B.A. from Princeton University
• M.A. from the University of Texas at Austin
• Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Austin

Rudd's research program centers on suicide risk assessment and intervention development, with three core pillars: (1) cognitive-behavioral approaches to suicide prevention, (2) military-specific risk factors and interventions, and (3) clinical assessment tools for suicidal behavior. His work bridges theoretical models like the Interpersonal-Psychological Theory of Suicidality with practical clinical applications, emphasizing brief, scalable interventions for high-risk populations. Key contributions include developing the Brief Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (BCBT) protocol specifically validated for military suicide prevention.

Analysis of his 15 most recent publications reveals a pronounced military focus (7 of 15), with recurrent themes including nonsuicidal self-injury as a suicide predictor, acute stressors in combat settings, and culturally adapted cognitive therapy. His work consistently targets measurement development (e.g., Suicide Cognitions Scale) and clinical translation, moving from theoretical frameworks to evidence-based protocols like SAMHSA's Treatment Improvement Protocol 50.

Dr. Rudd actively mentors doctoral students and plans to admit new graduate students for Fall 2025. His research is supported by Department of Defense and NIH grants focused on military suicide prevention. Current projects include longitudinal studies of post-deployment suicide risk and implementation of cognitive therapy protocols in VA systems.

No specific research laboratories are detailed in available materials, though his work involves multi-site military collaborations and clinical trials across Veterans Affairs facilities.