l University of Toronto names Anil Kishen dentistry dean

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University of Toronto names Anil Kishen dentistry dean

He will take over from interim dean professor Laura Tam, who has held the position since July 2022.

Anil Kishen / photo by Jeff Comber/ University of Toronto

The University of Toronto has named Anil Kishen as the new dean of its faculty of dentistry, effective July 1, 2025.

A globally recognized expert in endodontics and oral health nanomedicine, Kishen brings over 15 years of academic leadership and pioneering research to his new role.

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Currently serving as associate dean of graduate education and associate scientist at Mount Sinai Hospital, Kishen specializes in bioactive nanobiomaterials and phototherapeutics to combat oral infections. He holds the Dr. Lloyd and Mrs. Kay Chapman Chair in Clinical Sciences and a Canada Research Chair in Oral Health Nanomedicine.

Commenting on his appointment, Kishen said he looks forward to harnessing the U of T faculty of dentistry’s breadth of expertise to foster collaboration, develop new specializations and generate innovative curriculums

“I am tremendously honoured to be appointed dean of the faculty of dentistry. It is a privilege to have the opportunity to lead such an exceptional community of faculty, students and staff in advancing dentistry scholarship, practice and community engagement,” he added. . 

U of T provost Trevor Young praised Kishen’s appointment, calling him a “prolific researcher and skilled academic leader.” “His commitment to excellence and a visionary future will be vital to the Faculty of Dentistry’s success in the years ahead,” Young said. 

Kishen envisions establishing centres of excellence in key areas such as orofacial pain, craniofacial health, and special needs dentistry. “Looking to the future, I would also like us to integrate more digital technologies into our teaching and clinical practice,” he said. 

An advocate for accessible oral care, Kishen highlighted the need to address disparities, with a significant number of Canadians—particularly seniors and lower-income individuals—reporting untreated dental issues. “Our role extends beyond research and teaching,” said Kishen. “We must engage with communities and help shape the future of oral health in Canada.”

With degrees from the University of Madras, Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, and Nanyang Technological University, Kishen has authored over 250 journal articles and co-invented 12 patents. He has received top honors including the Louis I Grossman Award and the National Dental Research Award. 

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