ADA Welcomes Jonathan Burke, D.M.D., as new Director of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research

September 21, 2026 — The American Dental Association (ADA) congratulates Jonathan Burke, D.M.D., on his appointment as Director of the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR).

As a practicing dentist, board-certified oral and maxillofacial surgeon, and recognized leader in craniofacial care, Dr. Burke brings decades of clinical, academic, and leadership experience to NIDCR. His background in patient care and craniofacial health provides an important perspective as the institute continues its mission to advance dental, oral, and craniofacial research and improve health outcomes for patients.

“We congratulate Dr. Burke on his selection to lead the nation's prestigious medical research agency. We appreciate his leadership and contributions to the professional community, including his work to promote and advance research that improves oral health,” said Rich Rosato, D.M.D., president of the American Dental Association.

NIDCR, the federal government’s leading agency for dental, oral and craniofacial research, plays a critical role in advancing scientific discovery and innovation. The ADA looks forward to working with Dr. Burke and the NIDCR team to advance scientific understanding and help translate research discoveries into better prevention, diagnosis and treatment.

“We are committed to fostering strong partnerships that help translate research into improved treatment of oral and craniofacial diseases and conditions,” Dr. Rosato said.

The ADA also extends its gratitude to Jennifer Webster-Cyriaque, D.D.S., Ph.D. for her leadership and stewardship of NIDCR during the transition period and for her continued contributions to dental, oral, and craniofacial research.

We welcome Dr. Burke’s leadership at NIDCR and are committed to working together to advance oral health research, expand its impact and improve oral health outcomes for all.

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About the American Dental Association
The not-for-profit ADA is the nation's largest dental association, representing 152,000 dentist members. The premier source of oral health information, the ADA has advocated for the public's health and promoted the art and science of dentistry since 1859. The ADA's state-of-the-art research facilities develop and test dental products and materials that have advanced the practice of dentistry and made the patient experience more positive. The ADA Seal of Acceptance has long been a valuable and respected guide to consumer dental care products. The Journal of the American Dental Association (JADA), published monthly, is the ADA's flagship publication and the best-read scientific journal in dentistry. For more information about the ADA, visit ADA.org. For more information on oral health, including prevention, care and treatment of dental disease, visit the ADA's consumer website MouthHealthy.org.