Frank Scannapieco, D.M.D., Ph.D. is a State University of New York (SUNY) Distinguished Professor of Oral Biology and has an international reputation in oral biology. His research interests have included studies of basic dental plaque (biofilm) formation mechanisms and implications for health and disease. His laboratory has studied the interaction between salivary proteins and bacteria, and how these influence oral biofilms. He is also a pioneer in studies connecting oral and systemic diseases such as pneumonia, COPD, diabetes, and cancer.

A member of the University at Buffalo faculty since 1991. Dr Scannapieco served as the Chair of the Department of Oral Biology from 2004 to 2022. Over his career, he has mentored numerous junior faculty, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate, dental, and college students. He was awarded several research grants over his career, edited several books and journal supplements, and has published over 170 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters.

A fellow of the American Association of Dental Research, Scannapieco has received several awards, including the SUNY Chancellor’s Award for Excellence in Scholarship and Creative Activities, Distinguished Scientist Award in Oral Biology from the International Association for Dental Research, the William J. Gies Award for Achievement from the American Dental Education Association, and the Irwin D. Mandel Distinguished Mentoring Award, from the American Association for Dental Research.

He received a bachelor’s degree in biology and doctorate in dental medicine from the University of Connecticut, a master’s degree in biology from Northeastern University, and a PhD in oral biology and certificate in periodontics from the University at Buffalo.