“`html
University
Yang Chai appointed dean of the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC
The researcher-clinician, who holds the role of associate dean of research at the school, has been functioning as interim dean.
Yang Chai, associate dean of research at the Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC, has been appointed dean of the school, effective July 1.
Chai, a USC University Professor specializing in Dentistry, Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine, and Otolaryngology — Head and Neck Surgery, has been acting as interim dean. He will be designated as the G. Donald and Marian James Montgomery Professor of Dentistry.
“Chai is dedicated to education and patient treatment, directing the head and neck anatomy course for DDS learners, instructing graduate students in craniofacial biology, and practicing dentistry at the Ostrow Faculty Dental Practice,” Steven D. Shapiro, USC senior vice president for health affairs, mentioned in a message to the university community.
A clinician-scientist, Chai attained his Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry from Peking University School of Stomatology, where he also completed his residency in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Subsequently, he earned his DDS and PhD in craniofacial biology at USC. He holds the George and MaryLou Boone Chair in Craniofacial Molecular Biology at USC and serves as director of the Ostrow School’s Center for Craniofacial Molecular Biology.
Chai is recognized for his research on the molecular and cellular processes of craniofacial development and congenital anomalies, which has led to significant advances in cleft palate treatment and suture regeneration in craniosynostosis during preclinical trials. His research focuses on stem cells, and he and his team are currently preparing for first-in-human clinical trials utilizing advanced 3D-printed scaffolds combined with stem cells to restore tissue for patients who have lost skull bone due to trauma, developmental defects, or illness.
Backed by the National Institutes of Health, he has founded several national coalitions such as the Center for Dental, Oral and Craniofacial Tissue and Organ Regeneration and FaceBase, a resource for researchers.
New Herman Ostrow School of Dentistry of USC dean: Accomplished researcher
Chai is a member of the National Academy of Medicine, an elected affiliate of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, and a senior member of the National Academy of Inventors. He has authored over 180 scientific articles and numerous book chapters, and edited the volume Craniofacial Development. Chai has received continuous funding from the National Institutes of Health for more than 27 years. His contributions have earned him numerous accolades, including the 2011 International Association for Dental Research Distinguished Scientist Award and the 2023 Paul Goldhaber Award from Harvard University School of Dental Medicine.
Chai is married to Lihua Liu, an associate professor at the Keck School of Medicine of USC Department of Population and Public Health Sciences. Their two daughters graduated from USC and pursued doctoral studies at the university, one at the Keck School of Medicine and the other at the Ostrow School.
The Ostrow School was established in 1897 as one of the first dental institutions in the region. The school also encompasses the USC Division of Biokinesiology and Physical Therapy and the USC Mrs. T.H. Chan Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, both highly ranked by U.S. News & World Report.
“`