Themes

UAB’s oral cancer research centers on head and neck oncology, oral premalignant lesions and dysplasia, and outcomes of ablative and reconstructive surgery, linking diagnostic approaches, treatment planning, and functional recovery.

Theme focuses on National Dental Practice-Based Research Network activities, as well as evaluating oral health care delivery, outcomes, and quality in real-world clinical settings. Faculty investigate how evidence-based care is implemented in practice and how clinical, organizational, and population-level factors influence oral health outcomes. This work spans practice-based research, population health, and health services investigation, informing both clinical decision-making and system-level improvement.

At UAB, research in Neurobiology & Pain focuses on understanding and managing orofacial pain and sensory disorders through clinically informed and interdisciplinary investigation. Faculty study pain conditions encountered in dental, medical, and surgical practice, with attention to neurological, musculoskeletal, and systemic contributors. The work integrates clinical insight with neurobiological perspectives to inform diagnosis, management, and patient-centered care.

Research in Oral Microbiology & Immunology examines the interactions between oral microbial communities, host immune responses, and inflammation, with implications for oral and systemic health. Faculty investigate infectious and inflammatory processes relevant to periodontal disease, endodontic infection, and related conditions. This work spans basic, translational, and clinically informed research focused on understanding disease processes and informing prevention and treatment strategies.

Craniofacial Development & Genetics research at UAB focuses on the biological, genetic, and developmental processes that shape craniofacial and dental structures. Faculty investigate normal and altered development with relevance to congenital conditions, growth abnormalities, and translational approaches to diagnosis and care. This theme spans foundational discovery science and clinically informed research, supporting long-term understanding of craniofacial biology and its implications for oral health.

Biomaterials Science & Biomimetics research focuses on the development, evaluation, and application of materials and technologies designed to restore, replace, or enhance oral and craniofacial tissues. Faculty investigate material properties and performance with relevance to restorative, prosthodontic, regenerative, and translational applications. The research theme integrates materials science, engineering principles, and clinical dentistry to support research that is both scientifically rigorous and clinically relevant.