Brad A. Amendt, associate dean for research at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, has been named Dentistry Centennial Professor of Research. He was conferred the five-year appointment during the 63rd annual meeting of the Iowa section of the American Association for Dental Research (AADR) on Feb. 16 at the college.

Amendt's research focuses on understanding the role of transcription factors and signaling pathways in tooth and craniofacial development. His lab studies the expression and regulation of transcription factor genes and signaling processes involved in craniofacial /tooth development; the molecular basis of selected human genetic disorders; and the role of stem cells and microRNAs in regulating craniofacial and regenerative medicine. 

Amendt is known internationally as one of the world's leading authorities on micro-RNA research and cell plasticity.

Dr. Clark Stanford, former associate dean for research, was the first to be named Dentistry Centennial Professor of Research. He held the professorship from 2001 to 2014 before accepting the deanship of the University of Illinois, Chicago (UIC) College of Dentistry.