Joseph Robinson receives prestigious pharmacy award

The American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists has conferred its 1999 Distinguished Pharmaceutical Scientist Award – the highest honor from the pharmaceutical world’s most respected scientific association – on Joseph R. Robinson, professor of pharmacy and ophthalmology at the School of Pharmacy.

The award recognizes significant advances in the field of pharmaceutical sciences and technologies. In Robinson’s case, it honors more than 30 years of pioneering work in the areas of ocular and oral drug disposition and controlled-release drug delivery.

Robinson is one of three scientists worldwide who pioneered the use of bioadhesives in drug delivery and is credited with the discovery that polycarbophil can be used as a bioadhesive. Polycarbophil is the most successful and widely used bioadhesive.

More recently, Robinson’s research has focused on exploring the mechanisms responsible for absorption and drug loss from topical installation of drugs into the eye. He is also credited with providing an understanding of the penetration enhancement of drugs through biological tissues such as the intestines and the cornea.

Robinson’s colleagues are hardly surprised that the AAPS has chosen to honor him in such prestigious fashion.

“Joe is an internationally recognized expert in the area of controlled drug delivery who has brought us a great deal of recognition,” said Melvin Weinswig, dean of the School of Pharmacy. “As his career has grown, he has also taken a great deal of responsibility in ensuring that younger faculty members are mentored properly, so they too can contribute to the rich tradition we enjoy here.”

Robinson received his award at a special ceremony held last week in New Orleans.