Jacobs School Wishes a Fond Farewell to Nuclear Medicine Leader Dr. Miletich

After a distinguished tenure as interim chair and professor, Robert S. Miletich, MD, PhD, has stepped down from his role of interim chair and professor nuclear medicine, leaving a lasting legacy at the Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at the University at Buffalo.

For decades, Dr. Miletich's talent has shone through his groundbreaking research, nurturing future generations and culminating in the landmark chapter "Nuclear Neurology of Autism Spectrum Disorder." His dedication is a testament to his commitment to improving lives.

From his bachelor’s of science in general science and sociology from the University of Iowa to his medical degree in nuclear medicine from the University of Illinois Health Sciences Center and PhD in neuropharmacology from the University of Illinois Health Sciences Center, Dr. Miletich laid a foundation for a career of contributions.

His early immersion in cutting-edge research at the National Institutes for Health and UCLA, through his residency and fellowship, laid the groundwork for his contributions to nuclear medicine.

His passion soon transformed into action through his leadership roles at the Jacobs School. As medical director of the nuclear medicine technology program and program director of the nuclear medicine residency program, Dr. Miletich shaped the future of nuclear medicine, ensuring its continued excellence and relevance. Dr. Miletich’s dedication to education extended beyond research, as he shaped future minds as CME program director and professor. His passion for knowledge lit a spark of curiosity in countless students and colleagues.

Throughout his tenure, Dr. Miletich has been recognized with numerous accolades, from the Outstanding Accreditation Award for the Nuclear Medicine Residency to the Collimator Award for teaching excellence.

As Dr. Miletich embarks on this new chapter, we celebrate not just his achievements, but the spirit that fueled them. Please join me in celebrating Dr. Miletich’s remarkable career and enduring legacy. We are grateful for his pioneering research, inspiring mentorship, and commitment to pushing boundaries.

Rutao Yao, PhD, has agreed to serve as interim chair. A member of the Jacobs School faculty for the last decade, Dr. Yao is a highly accomplished scientist and educator with a distinguished career in nuclear medicine and radiobiology.

Congratulations to Dr. Yao on his appointment as interim chair of nuclear medicine. His expertise and dedication will be invaluable to the department.

With deepest admiration and warmest wishes,


Allison Brashear, MD, MBA
Vice President for Health Sciences and
Dean, Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences
University at Buffalo