The UI College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics is a global leader in oral science and dental and craniofacial research
Dental Research with a lasting impact
At the forefront of innovation, the College of Dentistry is advancing oral health research with a mission to address both foundational and emerging challenges in dental science. Our research spans a wide range of topics, from improving patient outcomes and developing new technologies to tackling the underlying causes of oral diseases. Each study, whether in the lab or clinic, reflects our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and communities around the world.
Over the last several years, the UI College of Dentistry has more than doubled its external research funding from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), vaulting from 24th in the nation and $2.2M to 13th overall and $4.8M in the latest rankings.
8
major areas of research
# 13
nationally in NIDCR funding
$ 26M +
in funding since 2022
40 %
of DDS students participate in research
Research News
Iowa team advances gene treatment to prevent premature skull fusion in newborns
Wednesday, August 27, 2025
University of Iowa researchers, led by Dr. Brad Amendt, successfully tested a nano-sized packet that released a single gene to prevent craniosynostosis. The research team aims to begin human clinical trials in the next one to two years.
Iowa Dentistry Announces 2025 Seed Grant Awards
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
The University of Iowa College of Dentistry is pleased to announce the 2025 Seed Grant Awards. This is the fifth year of the seed grant program, and these grants fund innovative projects from early-career investigators or established investigators who are developing a new line of research.
Iowa Dentistry Awarded Competitive Renewal to Advance Patient-Centered Dental Home Model
Wednesday, August 20, 2025
The University of Iowa College of Dentistry has received a competitive renewal of a grant from the CareQuest Institute for Oral Health to expand its Patient-Centered Dental Home (PCDH) project. Led by Dr. Julie Reynolds and Dr. Pete Damiano, the project will pilot new adult-focused quality measures, test care delivery standards, and explore patient-reported outcomes to improve dental care quality and integration with broader health systems.
University of Iowa Researchers Awarded NIH Grant to Uncover Genetic Mechanisms Behind Oral and Skin Development
Monday, August 11, 2025
Dr. Huojun Cao (Endodontics) and Dr. Eric Van Otterloo (Periodontics) have been awarded a $3 million NIH R01 grant to investigate how genetic programs guide the development of oral, dental, and skin tissues in the lower jaw.
Banas Appointed Associate Dean for Research at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry
Friday, August 8, 2025
Dr. Jeff Banas was appointed the UI College of Dentistry's next Associate Dean for Research.
Floriani publishes guide to scientific writing
Thursday, July 31, 2025
Dr. Franciele Floriani, clinical assistant professor in the department of prosthodontics, has published a new book designed to help educators, and professionals bring their research ideas to life.
2025 periodontics graduate selected as finalist for Balint Orban Memorial competition
Wednesday, July 30, 2025
A recent graduate from the Department of Periodontics, Dr. Jeremy Bobera, has been named one of eight finalists in the prestigious Balint Orban Memorial Competition.
Dr. Ariene Leme Kraus Receives NIH Grant to Investigate Causes of a Common Dental Condition
Monday, July 28, 2025
Dr. Ariene Leme Kraus received an NIH grant to investigate how subtle changes in enamel and dentin contribute to the development of noncarious cervical lesions—a common and often painful dental condition. Her work aims to uncover the underlying mechanisms of tissue breakdown, laying the groundwork for earlier diagnosis and more effective, personalized treatments to improve long-term outcomes for patients.
Dr. Azeez Butali Awarded NIH Grant to Discover Rare Genetic Risk Factors for Orofacial Clefts
Thursday, July 10, 2025
Dr. Azeez Butali has been awarded an NIH grant to identify rare genetic variants that contribute to orofacial clefts, the most common craniofacial birth defect. His work focuses on African populations and aims to improve early diagnosis, prevention, and care. The findings could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for children and families affected by clefts worldwide.
Manafi secures 2nd Place in International Hatton Award Competition
Wednesday, July 9, 2025
University of Iowa College of Dentistry third-year dental student Saba Manafi won second place in the prestigious Hatton Competition during the International Association for Dental Research (IADR) General Session, held June 25-28 in Barcelona, Spain.