The University of Iowa College of Dentistry is pleased to announce the appointment of Saulo Sousa Melo, DDS, MS, PhD, MEd as the department executive officer of the Department of Oral Pathology, Radiology, and Medicine, effective April 15, 2026.

The college thanks Dr. Lina Moreno for her hard work and care in her role as the interim department head during the transitional period.

Sousa Melo brings a strong record of academic leadership, clinical expertise, and research innovation to the role. A diplomate of the American Board of Oral and Maxillofacial Radiology, he earned a PhD in dental radiology from the University of Campinas in Brazil and completed a master’s degree and residency in oral and maxillofacial radiology at the University of Iowa. He also holds a Master of Education degree from Johns Hopkins University.

"I am excited to welcome Dr. Sousa Melo back to Iowa City to lead our department of oral pathology, radiology, and medicine," says Dean Clark Stanford. "His commitment to excellence in patient care, education, and research will advance the department's mission and strengthen its national reputation."

Currently a tenured associate professor at Oregon Health & Science University, Sousa Melo has held several leadership roles, including senior director of imaging and radiation safety and incident commander for the School of Dentistry. His experience includes curriculum development, participation in accreditation site visits, and service on national committees that help shape standards in dental education and radiology.

An accomplished scholar, Sousa Melo has published extensively on cone-beam computed tomography, radiation safety, and diagnostic imaging. His leadership will support the department's continued growth and strengthen the College of Dentistry's impact in oral health education and research.