In Memoriam: Robert “Bob” S. Sherwin, MD

Robert “Bob” S. Sherwin, MD, the inaugural director of YCCI, passed away on March 31 at Yale-New Haven Hospital after a long illness. He was 80 years old. Dr. Sherwin, a world-renowned academic diabetologist, led YCCI through a remarkable period of growth, and all of those who worked with him will remember his kindness, guidance, and wisdom. Together they mourn the loss of a leader whose inspiring vision will continue to serve as a beacon for the growth of clinical and translation research at Yale, and beyond, for years to come.

After 44 years of service, Dr. Sherwin retired from the Yale School of Medicine in 2018. Before answering the call of the 2004 strategic planning process to lead YCCI, Dr. Sherwin served as director of the General Clinical Research Center at Yale, and also held the position of associate dean for clinical and translational research at the School of Medicine. Through his leadership, Yale became one of the first twelve CTSAs nationally, and his stewardship of the program ensured two funding renewals, in 2011 and 2016.

Dr. Sherwin was also a world-renowned endocrinologists and pioneer in the field of diabetes research. His contributions to the field were legion, paving the way for novel diabetes treatments and covering all areas from basic research, clinical trials, diabetes technology, as well as research administration. Throughout his distinguished career, he was not only an outstanding scientist, clinician, and leader, but a dedicated mentor to generations of students and young researchers. While at the helm of YCCI, he supported 137 YCCI Scholars. He also recognized the necessity of diversity in clinical trials, and oversaw the development of the Cultural Ambassadors program, now a national model for inclusion in translational research.

Dr. Sherwin laid the groundwork for YCCI’s present and future success, and in his memory the staff of YCCI and the School of Medicine, will carry out his mission to support a thriving clinical research community at Yale and the development of new therapies that will benefit patients everywhere.