Ronald W. Wood

Dr. Ronald W. Wood is a part-time Research Associate Professor at the University of Rochester, affiliated with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Neuroscience, and Department of Urology (joint appointments). His career spans over four decades, with early work in behavioral pharmacology and toxicology of abused inhalants, followed by a shift to urogynecologic disorders, voiding dysfunction, and pelvic pain. He has contributed to medical imaging techniques and lymphatic system research.

• Education: B.A. in Psychology (1968, Grinnell College); M.A. (1974) and Ph.D. (1975) in Psychology (University of Rochester).

Dr. Wood's research focuses on urogynecologic disorders, lymphatic function in arthritis, and medical imaging. He pioneered studies linking behavioral pharmacology to clinical applications, particularly in bladder diseases and pelvic pain. His recent work explores lymphatic drainage, inflammatory biomarkers, and sex-dependent arthritis pathology.

His publications span 15 recent years, with a focus on lymphatic system dynamics, urology, arthritis, and medical imaging. Key trends include murine models for inflammatory diseases, anti-TNF therapy, and multi-omics approaches to biomarker discovery.

Scientific awards include:

• Best Scientific Paper (2006)
• Centennial Award for Early Career Contribution to the Science Directorate (1992)
• Karl F. Heiser Presidential Award for Advocacy (1992)
• NIDA Research Scientist Development Award (1987-1992)

Dr. Wood holds patents for antimuscarinic compounds and urologic imaging devices. His work bridges basic science and clinical applications, with grants from the NIH and collaborations across urology, rheumatology, and medical imaging. He has contributed to animal models of drug self-administration and toxicokinetics of industrial chemicals.