September 18, 2026
The American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR) congratulates Jonathan Burke, DMD, on being named Director of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR).
Dr. Burke brings more than 30 years of experience spanning oral and maxillofacial surgery, clinical and academic leadership, and healthcare management. Throughout his career, he has advanced patient care through surgical innovation, interdisciplinary collaboration, and the development of innovative approaches to clinical care delivery. His work has included several areas closely aligned with NIDCR’s research mission, including craniofacial care, cleft palate reconstructive care, multidisciplinary approaches to patient care, and the education and training of surgical residents.
“On behalf of our broad dental, oral, and craniofacial research community, we warmly welcome Dr. Burke as NIDCR’s Director and look forward to his leadership of the NIH’s third oldest institute,” said Christopher Fox, Chief Executive Officer of AADOCR.
As the federal government’s lead agency for scientific research on dental, oral, and craniofacial health and disease, NIDCR plays a critical role in advancing fundamental knowledge and translating scientific discoveries into improved prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
AADOCR congratulates Dr. Burke on his selection as the next NIDCR Director and wishes him every success, and looks forward to continuing to work with the NIDCR to advance research that improves health and well-being for individuals and communities across the United States and around the world.
