William V. Giannobile, Dean of the Harvard School of Dental Medicine (HSDM), was honored with the American Dental Association’s 2024 Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Dental Research last Friday.
This prestigious triennial award recognizes individuals who have made significant advancements in dentistry through research or have substantially improved public oral health. Giannobile’s recognition highlights his notable contributions to both research and student mentorship in the field.
In a statement, Giannobile expressed his gratitude, stating, “I could not have achieved what I have done in my career without the loving support of my family, my colleagues, mentors, and inspiring students.”
Giannobile’s research spans several areas, including bone and tissue regeneration, stem cell therapy, and precision medicine. His laboratory at HSDM is dedicated to exploring bone reconstruction, dental implants, and innovative gene delivery techniques that enhance the process of osseointegration, which is when a dental implant fuses with the bone.
As part of his award, Giannobile will serve a three-year term on the ADA’s Council on Scientific Affairs. Previous recipients of this honor include Basil G. Bibby, the 27th president of the International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Reconstruction.
Before his appointment as dean in 2020, Giannobile was a professor and department chair of periodontics and oral medicine at the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. He holds a Doctor of Medical Sciences degree from HSDM, as well as dental and master’s degrees from the University of Missouri School of Dentistry.
Reflecting on his achievements, Giannobile stated, “The students and innovative collaborators over the years make all of our research possible. I am so grateful to them for advancing oral health research forward.”
Related topics: