The International Association for Dental Research (IADR) honored Frank A. Scannapieco, DMD, PhD, chair and professor of the Department of Oral Biology at the University of Buffalo (UB) School of Dental Medicine, with its 2019 Research in Oral Biology Award during its 97th General Session & Exhibition in Vancouver, British Columbia, on June 19. One of 17 IADR Distinguished Scientist Awards, the accolade is among the highest honors bestowed by the organization, the university says.
“I am honored to learn of this award. Much credit goes to all of the students and associates who contributed so much over the years, especially my longtime collaborator, Dr. Elaine Haase,” said Scannapieco.
Also serving as associate dean for faculty and professional development, Scannapieco leads the UB Department Oral Biology, which is the first such department established in the United States, the university reports. He has served as a faculty member of the UB School of Dental Medicine for more than 30 years.
An internationally recognized scholar in oral biology, Scannapieco’s research focuses on the mechanisms of dental plaque formation and their implications on health and disease, the interactions between saliva and bacteria, and the relationships between oral and systematic disease.
“This is a richly deserved award from the preeminent dental research organization in the world, recognizing Dr. Scannapieco’s outstanding research contributions over a number of years including, among many important discoveries, his demonstration of the association between oral and respiratory infections,” said Joseph H. Zambon, DDS, PhD, dean of the School of Dental Medicine.
Scannapieco has received more than $13 million in grant funding, mostly from the National Institutes of Health, and has published nearly 200 research articles, books, and book chapters. He holds a doctorate in dental medicine and a bachelor’s degree in biology from the University of Connecticut, a doctorate in oral biology from UB, and a master’s degree in biology from Northeastern University.
Also, Scannapieco is a fellow of the American Association for Dental Research and has received numerous awards, including the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities and the William J. Gies Award for Achievement from the American Dental Education Association.
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