The International Association for Dental Research (IADR) has given its Distinguished Scientist Award in Salivary Research to Stefan Ruhl, DDS, PhD, a professor of oral biology from the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine in New York.
Dr. Ruhl is an expert on saliva, oral bacteria, and the oral microbiome and is currently investigating biomolecules called glycans that help bacteria attach to the mouth and other surfaces. His prior research has helped identify the enzyme amylase in the saliva of mammals and also uncover genetic evidence showing how the introduction of starch into the human diet altered saliva.
The award recognizes Dr. Ruhl's achievements and contributions to the understanding of salivary glands, which includes nearly 50 journal articles and several books. Dr. Ruhl formerly served as president of the IADR Salivary Research Group and is on the editorial boards of the Journal of Dental Research and Clinical Oral Investigations.