Dan Kaufmann

Dr. Dan Kaufmann is a Research Assistant Professor at the University of Utah’s Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology. With a Ph.D. in Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmaceutics from the University of Jerusalem, Dr. Kaufmann has significantly contributed to the design and synthesis of novel drugs for treating epilepsy and neuropathic pain. He developed SPD, a novel anticonvulsant and migraine preventive compound. This patented compound has demonstrated great promise in pre-clinical models for epilepsy, neuropathic pain, and migraine.
In recent years, Dr. Kaufmann’s research has focused on the modulation of migraine by sex, stress, and affect. He has broadened his scope to include musculoskeletal pain and fatigue. His current work within the Division of Rheumatology explores the intersection of psychological treatments and rheumatic diseases, reflecting his growing interest in the emotional aspects of chronic pain.
Driven by a desire to integrate both pharmacological and psychological approaches to pain management, Dr. Kaufmann is on track to become a licensed Clinical Mental Health Counselor. He trained extensively in cognitive behavioral hypnotherapy, neurolinguistic programming (NLP), biofeedback, autogenic training, the Unified Protocol, and Emotional Awareness and Expression Therapy (EAET). Currently Dr. Kaufmann is also a board member of the “National Board of Trauma Specialists”.
Dr. Kaufmann has just completed a study evaluating the effects of EAET on migraine endpoints and the crucial role of trauma in migraine sufferers' emotional experiences. The study showed significant potential for EAET’s unique therapeutic approach in migraine. His long-term goal is to combine his expertise in pharmacology, physiology, and behavior to develop innovative treatments for various pain conditions, including migraine and rheumatology-related pain, ultimately improving the lives of patients dealing with these complex diseases.