2OO9 – 2O1O - Faculty of Dentistry - University of Otago

Report by the Director
The creation of knowledge through scholarship, research and invention is a fundamental requisite
of a university. Research projects also provide distinctive learning opportunities for undergraduate
and graduate students, and research funding drives both Faculty and Departmental development.
The University of Otago is recognised as the leading research institution in New Zealand. Within
the University, the Sir John Walsh Research Institute (SJWRI) of the Faculty of Dentistry is
committed to enhancing research in a broad range of areas. While the primary goal of research
is to generate new knowledge and to translate that knowledge for the benefit of humankind,
a sense of excitement and enquiry ensures that researchers are able to pursue research in
areas of their own choosing, subject to compliance with ethical requirements and economic
constraints. With this in mind, the SJWRI has identified a number of strategic interdisciplinary
research areas in consultation with key stakeholders:
~ Biomechanics and Oral Implantology;
~ Dental Epidemiology and Public Health;
~ Education Research;
~ Oral Molecular Immunopathology; and
~ Molecular Microbiology.
In fostering these complementary strengths, we cultivate a research culture that supports
innovation and ultimately leads to discoveries that will transform our profession.
I am proud and pleased to present the biennial Research Report of the SJWRI. Measuring
research excellence is highly challenging, requiring a balance between quantitative and qualitative
measures, together with an appreciation of the unique needs of the New Zealand population.
For individual researchers, important outcome measures include the number of refereed articles
or book chapters published, levels of external funding obtained, presentation at significant
professional conferences and involvement in the evaluation and editorial management of
manuscripts or research grants. Additionally, participation in professional associations, as well as
success in translating research into improved health outcomes depends on individuals working
together in broader thematic areas of specialisation. Of course, all of this occurs in the context
of research-informed teaching, which enhances the student experience at the Faculty of
Dentistry at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Notwithstanding the economic downturn, research enterprise at the SJWRI continues to
flourish – a measure of the dedication and talent of our extraordinary faculty and researchers.
We received $4,181,278 in research funding from internal and external sources in the past two
years, surpassing the previous two years’ funding by $937,562. Despite the funding challenges
presented during the past two years, we advanced research in a number of important fields,
including: developing immunological technologies to detect, prevent, and counter periodontal
disease; expanding our knowledge on clinical implant placements; finding answers to questions
about tongue and lip function during swallowing; adding to health services research and
knowledge of the epidemiology and natural history of oral conditions; and investigating the role
of microorganisms in oral diseases.
Through joint programmes and collaborative efforts, ties between the Institute and local
and overseas laboratories have never been stronger. The creative energy generated by these
relationships has benefited our students, the local research community and, from the standpoint of
clinical dentistry, the profession at large. This report illustrates, highlights and celebrates our success
in developing outstanding research, to the benefit of both the Faculty and New Zealand as a whole.
Jules Kieser
Director, Sir John Walsh Research Institute
Faculty of Dentistry, University of Otago
PO Box 647
Dunedin, New Zealand
Email: jules.kieser@otago.ac.nz
Website: www.otago.ac.nz/sjwri
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