Marcelo Araujo, DDS, MS ’99, PhD ’03, dean of the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine, is a distinguished academic leader, esteemed professor of periodontology and proud UB alumnus. An internationally recognized clinical researcher and epidemiologist, he joined the school in 2023 as its 15th dean.

Prior to joining UB as dean and professor, Araujo was the chief science officer of the American Dental Association (ADA), chief executive officer of the ADA Science & Research Institute (ADASRI), and interim chief executive officer of the ADA Foundation (ADAF). These influential roles allowed him to cultivate strategic insights and develop expertise in organized dentistry. He also held positions in the pharmaceutical industry, where he made a significant impact in health care products research for more than a decade.

Araujo’s extensive experience in clinical care, research, health care business and health sciences complements his deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges in dentistry. His emphasis on leveraging the power and science of innovation enhances the school’s academic, research, and clinical endeavors while improving its national and global rankings and reputation.

Araujo earned a PhD in epidemiology and community health and a master’s degree in oral sciences from UB, where he also completed a fellowship in periodontology clinical research and teaching. He received his DDS in 1995 and a certificate in periodontology in 1997 from Universidade Gama Filho in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.