Frank A. Scannapieco DMD, PhD

Frank Scannapieco, SUNY Distinguished Professor of Oral Biology, has an international reputation in the field of oral biology. His research interests have included studies of basic mechanisms of dental plaque formation and implications in health and disease. His laboratory studied details of the interaction between salivary proteins and bacteria, and how these influence oral biofilms. He is also a pioneer in studies connecting oral and systemic diseases such as pneumonia, COPD, diabetes and cancer.

A member of the University at Buffalo faculty since 1991. Dr. Scannapieco served as the Chair of the Department of Oral Biology from 2004 to 2022. Over his career, he has mentored numerous junior faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate, dental and college students. He was awarded a number of research grants over the course of his career, edited several books and journal supplements, and has published more than 170 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters.

A fellow of the American Association of Dental Research, Scannapieco has received several awards, including the State University of New York Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities, Distinguished Scientist Award in Oral Biology from the International Association for Dental Research, the William J. Gies Award for Achievement from the American Dental Education Association, and the Irwin D. Mandel Distinguished Mentoring Award, from the American Association for Dental Research.

He received a bachelor’s degree in biology and doctorate in dental medicine from the University of Connecticut, a master’s degree in biology from Northeastern University, and a PhD in oral biology and certificate in periodontics from UB.