ACCESS TO DENTAL CARE FOR PRIORITY POPULATIONS
With
Professor Dileep Sharma,
Head of Discipline Oral Health,
School of Health Sciences,
University of Newcastle,
New South Wales, Australia
RESEARCHER PROFILE
Filmed in Ourimbah, New South Wales, Australia | November 2025
Professor Dileep Sharma is a distinguished dental educator and researcher who currently serves as Professor and Discipline Head of Oral Health at the University of Newcastle, Australia. With over two decades of experience spanning clinical practice, research leadership, and academic mentorship, Professor Sharma has established himself as a leading authority in oral health education and interdisciplinary research.
His academic journey includes a Master of Dental Surgery in Periodontics and a PhD from Griffith University, where his doctoral research focused on bisphosphonate-related osteonecrosis of the jaw. Professor Sharma’s leadership extends beyond research, having successfully led curriculum development and program accreditation processes, including the re-accreditation of the Bachelor of Oral Health Therapy program by the Australian Dental Council.
Professor Sharma has had significant career milestones, including receiving the James Cook University Dean’s Teaching Excellence Award in 2021 for innovative educational practices and research mentorship. He was internationally recognised as a Fellow of The International College of Dentists and The Pierre Fauchard Academy, and received the Joan Chong Award in Dental Materials in 2022. With over 80 peer-reviewed publications and nearly $1 million in competitive research funding, Professor Sharma has demonstrated research excellence. Additionally, he is currently supervising six PhD students, contributing to the successful completion of various research projects.
Professor Sharma’s current research focus is across 3 domains:
– Priority Population Research: Professor Sharma’s work addresses oral health disparities in underserved communities, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander populations, refugee communities, and individuals with mental health conditions. His research encompasses oral cancer prevalence mapping in rural Australia and interventional strategies for vulnerable populations.
– Tissue Engineering & Bioactive materials: His expertise in regenerative medicine includes implant surface modifications, bioengineered materials, hydrogels, and 3D printing applications for periodontal regeneration. Notable work includes developing novel zirconia implant surfaces and VEGF-hydrogel delivery systems for prevention of medication-related osteonecrosis of the jaws.
– Public Health & Educational Research: Professor Sharma leads population health initiatives examining oral health-mental health connections, dental workforce development, and innovative educational methodologies. His scholarship of teaching and learning research focuses on enhancing clinical education and professional competency development in dental and oral health programs.
Source: Supplied and adapted
https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4463-1480
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Neuroscience, neuropharmacology and exercise science
Dr Jacob Thorstensen is an early-career Assistant Professor in Neuroscience and Physiology in the Faculty of Health Sciences & Medicine at Bond University. He is also an honorary research fellow in The School of Biomedical Sciences at The University of Queensland. His work has unveiled several new neuroscientific mechanisms which have future applications for movement disorders.
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New treatments for patients with mental illness
Associate Professor Bernadette Fitzgibbon is a neuroscientist with several decades of experience in researching, developing, and translating novel therapies for mental health and chronic pain conditions. This includes the application and optimisation of brain stimulation and psychedelic therapies, overseeing large multi-site intervention trials, both within Australia and abroad. Through her work, she has developed meaningful collaborations with consumers, volunteers, policy makers, and services providers, ensuring that the outcomes of her work contribute towards real-world clinical impact.
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Antimicrobial technologies & drug delivery platforms
Dr Aaron Elbourne is an ARC DECRA Fellow, Jack Brockhoff ECR Fellow, and Associate Professor within the School of Science at STEM Hub. A leader in nanomaterials, soft matter science, and interface research, Aaron’s work addresses critical challenges in health and the environment.
With a strong focus on translational research, Aaron’s work bridges the gap between fundamental science and practical applications. His leadership in creating innovative technologies, fostering academic-industry partnerships, and empowering future researchers underscores his commitment to advancing science and creating a meaningful impact.
