Emeritus Research Professor
We remember the life and legacy of Dr. Charles D. Kaplan who passed away on July 27, 2026. Charlie was an internationally respected scholar, mentor, and humanitarian whose work transformed the fields of social work, addiction, public health, and medical sociology. He leaves behind a legacy of intellectual curiosity, innovation, and compassion that will continue to inspire researchers, educators, clinicians, and students around the world.
In 2011, Charlie joined the USC Suzanne Dworak-Peck School of Social Work as research professor and associate dean for research. At USC, he became a respected academic leader whose commitment to scientific excellence was matched by his dedication to mentoring others. He generously guided junior faculty, supported interdisciplinary collaborations, and encouraged early-career investigators from diverse backgrounds, believing that the future of science depended on investing in the next generation.
Dr. Kaplan served as Research Professor of Social Work at the USC Edward R. Roybal Institute on Aging, and Steering Committee Member for the USC Institute for Integrative Health & Wellness.
Charlie’s academic journey began at the University of California, Los Angeles, where he earned his PhD in Sociology as a National Institute of General Medical Sciences trainee. His early work explored the intersections of neuroscience, language, and pain, laying the foundation for a career devoted to understanding the complex interplay of biological, psychological, and social influences on health. Over more than five decades, Charlie built an international career that bridged disciplines, countries, and cultures. He held professorships and research leadership positions in Germany, The Netherlands, and the United States.
As Founding Director of the Addiction Research Institute at Erasmus University Rotterdam and later leader of the Drug Research Division at Maastricht University, he helped establish innovative approaches such as the German Biographical Method and Maastricht Social Network Analysis, practices that continue to shape addiction treatment and mental health services throughout Europe.
Charlie’s scholarship encompassed addiction, pain, healthy aging, social networks, community health, health disparities, and patient-centered outcomes. He was an early advocate for integrating biomedical and psychosocial perspectives to better understand chronic pain, addiction, and mental health. In later years, his research focused on healthy aging among long-term heroin users, community implementation science, cannabis policy, psychedelic research, and the social determinants of health, always emphasizing equity and improving care for underserved populations.
Those who knew Charlie will remember his remarkable scholarly accomplishments, generosity, humility, and unwavering commitment to others. We celebrate not only a brilliant scientist, but also a kind mentor, visionary leader, and deeply compassionate human being. May his memory be a blessing and an inspiration to all who had the privilege of knowing him.