Robert P. Igo, Jr.

Robert P. Igo, Jr., PhD, was an Assistant Professor in the Department of Population and Quantitative Health Sciences at Case Western Reserve University's School of Medicine. He was a valued member of the Cleveland Institute for Computational Biology and contributed to research on genetic determinants of complex diseases like glaucoma, age-related macular degeneration, Alzheimer’s, and neurodegeneration. His career spanned roles from postdoctoral fellow (2005) to instructor (2007) before becoming an Assistant Professor in 2009.

Rob earned his Ph.D. in Anatomy from the University of Utah and an MS in Biostatistics from the University of Washington. He was known for his expertise in genomic analysis, pragmatic teaching style, and dedication to making statistical tools accessible. Courses he developed and taught included Statistical Methods in Human Genetics, Statistical Programming, and Genetic Epidemiology.

His research interests centered on applying biostatistics and genetic epidemiology to understand health conditions, particularly those impacting vision and neurodegenerative diseases. He collaborated with international consortia such as the International AMD Genomics Consortium and the Million Veteran Program, while also developing user-friendly software tools for the field. Colleagues described him as a mentor who blended humor with intellectual rigor, fostering a supportive environment for students and researchers alike.

Rob’s legacy includes over 60 peer-reviewed publications and his role as a trusted advisor on thesis committees. He was celebrated for his empathy, approachability, and willingness to help students navigate both academic challenges and personal struggles. Beyond academia, he was an avid naturalist, photographer, and lover of cats, board games, and travel. His untimely passing in July 2020 left a profound void in his department, where he was remembered as a 'glue' for teams and a cherished friend.