Frank Scannapieco earns 2019 Research in Oral Biology Award from IADR

BUFFALO, N.Y. — Frank A. Scannapieco, DMD, PhD, chair and professor of the Department of Oral Biology at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, has received the 2019 Research in Oral Biology Award from the International Association for Dental Research (IADR).

The Research in Oral Biology Award, which recognizes outstanding research in the field of oral biology, is one of 17 IADR Distinguished Scientist Awards and is one of the highest honors bestowed by the organization.

Scannapieco received the award on June 19 at the 97th General Session & Exhibition of the IADR in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

“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 long-time collaborator Dr. Elaine Haase,” said Scannapieco.

Scannapieco, also associate dean for faculty and professional development, leads the UB Department of Oral Biology, the first such department established in the U.S. He has served as a faculty member of the UB School of Dental Medicine for more than 30 years.

An internationally recognized scholar in the field of 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 J. 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 (NIH), and has published nearly 200 research articles, books and book chapters.

He 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.

Scannapieco received 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.

He resides in Clarence.

The IADR is a nonprofit organization with more than 11,400 members worldwide dedicated to advancing research and increasing knowledge for the improvement of oral health.