Anthony Robinson, Ph.D., has joined the Department of Psychology in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences as a pre-faculty fellow in the Pathway to Faculty program. 

Robinson earned his doctoral degree in clinical psychology from Louisiana State University where his studies focused on the advancement of psychological and neuropsychological assessment to improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare burden and costs. 

He will work with faculty mentor Lisa Rapport, Ph.D., to continue this research at Wayne State University. 

“However, I now have a particular focus on improving assessment practices in underserved and underrepresented populations,” Robinson said. “This work is particularly important as research has shown that Black Americans are underrepresented in neuropsychology research, which reduces our ability to provide culturally competent services and further contributes to existing health disparities.” 

Robinson will lead a project focused on the development of a clinical research database at the Wayne State Psychology Clinic (WSUPC), a community-serving clinic and training site for doctoral students in the clinical psychology program. 

“Through this database, we will investigate key questions relevant to both assessment and intervention, such as identifying factors associated with successful treatment outcomes at the WSUPC and understanding how demographic variables and sociocultural factors influence the efficacy of assessments and treatments,” Robinson said. “Ultimately, this project aims to enhance patient care and reduce disparities in mental health outcomes.”

Robinson will also collaborate with researchers at the Institute of Gerontology (IOG) and the Michigan Center for Urban African American Aging Research (MCUAAAR) on projects focused on aging and neuropsychological assessment in Black older adults in Detroit. 

It’s collaborative opportunities such as these in the DEI space that first fostered Robinson’s interest in the Pathway to Faculty program at Wayne State University. 

“PTF's innovative approach to preparing pre-faculty fellows for tenure-track positions reflects Wayne State's dedication to enhancing representation in academia, which is crucial for fostering a diverse and equitable academic environment,” Robinson said. “The opportunity to be part of an exceptional program at an institution that not only values but actively encourages community engagement is inspiring. I am eager to contribute to and benefit from this dynamic and supportive environment, which will enable me to grow as a researcher and educator committed to advancing inclusive and impactful scholarship.”

Written by Kristy Case, Graduate School