Carmem Pfeifer DDS, PhD
Professor, Division Director
Department of Restorative Dentistry, Division of Biomaterials and Biomechanics, School of Dentistry, Oregon Health & Science University
Background:
Dr. Pfeifer completed her PhD at the University of Sao Paulo with a focus on Biomaterials. The overarching objective of her research program is to use innovative synthetic approaches in the design of restorative materials capable of adapting to the oral environment. To date her lab has focused on creating materials that specifically target dysbiotic species of the oral biofilm, preserving the natural commensal microbiome. A secondary focus is on the development of novel monomers and oligomeric additives, with a strong emphasis on photopolymerization. A recent success of her lab is the licensing of some of her patented technologies to industry partners. Her research is funded by NIH-NIDCR.
Research Interests:
- Enzymatically and hydrolytically stable polymers
- Real-time measurements – optical coupling
- Low-stress, high toughness polymer networks
- Targeted approaches against oral biofilm formation