Columbia University College of Dental Medicine Welcomes Dr. Rena D’Souza as Visiting Professor

Rena D’Souza, DDS, MS, PhD, will be a visiting professor in the in the Section of Oral, Diagnostic and Rehabilitation Sciences, Division of Periodontics, at the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine. Dr. D’Souza will hold a part-time appointment from January 1 through June 30, 2026, bringing her extraordinary experience as a clinician-scientist, educator, and researcher to the CDM community.

An internationally recognized authority in craniofacial biology and genetics, D’Souza’s career spans more than four decades and reflects a deep

commitment to advancing oral and dental health through discovery, translation, and mentorship. She earned her DDS, master’s degree in Pathology and Biomedical Sciences, and PhD from the University of Texas Health Science Center, and focused her research on advancing fundamental knowledge of dental and oral health and translating those findings into treatment strategies that improve health outcomes across the lifespan.

D’Souza has authored more than 150 peer-reviewed publications and book chapters and has held numerous leadership roles in academic dentistry and national research organizations. Most notably, she served as the ninth director of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research at the National Institutes of Health, where she guided national research priorities aimed at improving oral health. Her many honors include the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine Birnberg Research Medal, awarded in 2016 in recognition of her outstanding contributions to dental research.

During her time at CDM, Dr. D’Souza will play an active role in advancing the College’s research mission. Beginning March 6, 2026, she will lead a monthly research seminar program. The program, “Building Bridges for Oral Health Research, ” a part of the Dean's Distinguished Lecture Series, will guide a collaborative research project involving students. The inaugural seminar is titled “The Oral Health Profession Today: Big Challenges and Bigger Opportunities.” In addition, she will serve as a mentor to tenure-track faculty, sharing her expertise in scientific leadership, research development, and career advancement.

D’Souza’s residency at CDM represents a unique opportunity for students and faculty to engage with an influential voice in the field of oral health. Her presence will strengthen the College’s research community and provide invaluable hands-on learning and mentorship experiences.