We are deeply saddened to share that Dr. Ronald Goldberg, Professor of Medicine, Biochemistry, and Molecular Biology in the Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, and Metabolism, and a senior faculty member of the Diabetes Research Institute (DRI), passed away early Sunday morning. His passing marks the loss of a visionary leader, a brilliant scientist, and a deeply respected colleague whose impact on the DRI, the University of Miami, and the global diabetes community will be felt for generations.
Dr. Goldberg completed his medical training in Johannesburg, South Africa, and moved to the United States in 1977 for Endocrinology training at the University of Chicago, where he was a SCOR Atherosclerosis Trainee. He later joined the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, where he held numerous leadership roles, including Chief of the Division of Diabetes and Metabolism (1988–1999), Director of the DRI Kosow Diagnostic and Treatment Center (1986–1999), and co-director of the DRI Clinical Research Laboratory. He was also a Diplomate of the American Board of Clinical Lipidology.
His scientific contributions were profound. Dr. Goldberg focused his research on preventing type 2 diabetes and its complications—particularly cardiovascular disease—as well as advancing the understanding of lipid metabolism and atherosclerosis. He was a Principal Investigator in the NIH-funded Diabetes Prevention Program (DPP) and the DPP Outcomes Study (DPPOS), among other NIH- and industry-sponsored studies. His collaborative work extended to major public health investigations, including research on stroke, HIV-related atherosclerosis, and the metabolic effects of environmental factors in immigrant populations.
Dr. David Nathan, Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Director of the Diabetes Center at Massachusetts General Hospital, shared:
“His broad knowledge, incisive scientific wit, warmth and humor guided the DPP/DPPOS Research Group over its 30 years. He was an exceptional scientist and dear friend to so many of us.”
Dr. Steven Kahn, Director of the UW Diabetes Research Center, remembered:
“Ron’s passing is a huge loss to the scientific and clinical communities and to me personally… He taught everyone he touched that our time on earth is finite, should be savored, and must be spent doing positive things. A remarkable message from a remarkable human.”
Dr. Goldberg was also deeply committed to medical education. He directed the Southeast Florida Diabetes Center Program from 1996 to 2008 and mentored countless students, residents, and fellows. His work with the University of Miami Lipid Disorders Clinic and his role as the ADA’s representative on the ACC/AHA 2018 Cholesterol Guidelines Committee exemplified his dedication to translating science into practice.
Dr. Jay Skyler, Professor of Medicine and Deputy Director for Clinical Research and Academic Programs at the DRI, noted:
“I knew Ron since he came to UM. He always kept a positive, forward-looking attitude despite being wheelchair-bound with disability. He will be missed.”
Even as his health declined, Dr. Goldberg remained hopeful and driven, continuing to contribute to the advancement of research and care. He was a beloved mentor, a compassionate physician, and a pillar of the DRI community. His legacy will live on in the lives he impacted and in the work that continues because of his vision and dedication.
Dr. Goldberg is survived by his beloved wife of 21 years, Norma. He will be laid to rest in Asheville, North Carolina, on Thursday. Our hearts are with his family, colleagues, and all who mourn this profound loss.