• Recognition
• Expressions Winter 2023

IADR Distinguished Scientist Award

Recognising exceptional contributions of Professor Chengfei Zhang

Professor Chengfei Zhang, our esteemed Clinical Professor in Endodontics and Associate Dean for Research and Innovation, has been honoured with the prestigious International Association for Dental Research (IADR) Distinguished Scientist (Pulp Biology & Regeneration Award). This remarkable achievement not only recognises Professor Zhang’s outstanding contributions to the field of dentistry but also highlights the research excellence culture at HKU Dentistry.

Professor Zhang’s research expertise lies in the biology and regeneration of the pulp/dentin complex, as well as clinical vital pulp therapy and regeneration (revascularisation). His innovative research activities have garnered international recognition, including the International Association of Dental Research (IADR) William J Gies Award for his publication in the Journal of Dental Research, and the Best Paper Award by the Journal of Endodontics, a top Journal in Endodontology.

His research on endodontic etiopathogenesis and pulp regeneration has received funding from the Hong Kong Research Grants Council and various funding agencies in Mainland China. Professor Zhang has also been an active lecturer at many national and international events, notably the IADR/AADR and IADR-SEA meetings, and has published over 200 journal papers and book chapters.

Professor Chengfei Zhang’s achievements symbolise the research excellence culture at the Faculty.

In addition to his research accomplishments, Professor Zhang serves as a valued editorial board member for prestigious publications such as Journal of Dental Research, the International Endodontic Journal, International Dental Journal, Bioengineering, and advisory board member of Journal of Endodontics. These roles demonstrate his commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering collaboration within the dental community.

Professor Zhang’s academic journey began with his pursuit of DDS and PhD degrees from Peking University, which provided him with a solid foundation in dental education and research. Since joining the HKU Faculty of Dentistry in 2009, he has played a pivotal role in furthering the institution’s research and innovation initiatives.

As a clinician, I am even excited that necrotic pulp in young teeth can be successfully regenerated. We are continuously working on new strategies to regenerate/revitalise the dead pulp in adult teeth.

Expressing his happiness about his work, Professor Zhang said, “I am happy that my work contributes a bit to the dental pulp biology and regeneration field. As a clinician, I am even excited that necrotic pulp in young teeth can be successfully regenerated. We are continuously working on new strategies to regenerate/revitalise the dead pulp in adult teeth.”

The IADR Pulp Biology and Regeneration Award aims to recognise, encourage, and stimulate exceptional research contributions in the field of pulp biology. As one of the 17 IADR Distinguished Scientist Awards, this accolade represents one of the highest honours bestowed by IADR.

We congratulate Professor Zhang on this well-deserved award. His achievements bring immense pride to the entire HKU Dentistry community and serve as an inspiration for us to continue pushing the boundaries of knowledge in the pursuit of better oral health for all.

The International Association for Dental Research Distinguished Scientist Award recognises Professor Chengfei Zhang’s contribution to the field of pulp biology and regeneration.