Patricia I. Diaz
Patricia I. Diaz
Professor of Empire Innovation, Director UB Microbiome Center
Specialty/Research Focus
Microbiology; Oral Biology; Oral Biology; Periodontics
Professional Summary:
My research program focuses on the oral microbiome. My laboratory uses clinical studies, genomics, computational biology and model systems to study the processes that lead to dysbiosis of the oral microbiome. Our goal is to understand community dynamics and develop tools to manipulate the microbiome thereby interfering with disease development. We are particularly interested in understanding the significance of the microbiome as a mediator of susceptibility to oral comorbidities of cancer treatment and as an essential trigger in periodontal disease. We also investigate the potential for the salivary microbiome to serve as a biomarker for oral and systemic conditions.
Education and Training:
- MS, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2008)
- Residency, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (2008)
- PhD, The University of Adelaide (2003)
- DDS, CES University (1996)
Employment:
- Professor of Empire Innovation, Oral Biology, University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine (2020-present)
- Associate Professor, Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Center School of Dental Medicine (2015–2020)
- Assistant Professor, Oral Health and Diagnostic Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Center School of Dental Medicine (2008–2015)
- Post Doctoral Fellow, Laboratory of Dr. Paul Kolenbrander, NIDCR, NIH (2003–2005)
Research Expertise:
- Microbiology
- Periodontology