Chair & Associate Professor, Department of Adult Restorative Dentistry
Background:
- DDS, University of Ribeirao Preto School of Dentistry, Brazil
- MS, Operative Dentistry, University of Sao Paulo USP, Brazil
- PhD, Restorative Dentistry, University of Toronto, Canada & Sao Paulo State University UNESP, Brazil
After obtaining my DDS, I immediately started working towards my master's degree in operative dentistry and accepted a position as an assistant professor at my alma mater institution. At that time, the division head of operative dentistry was retiring, and I decided to step in as the new division head. I started my PhD in 2007 and had the opportunity to apply for a scholarship with the Brazilian government and spend one year at the University of Toronto, Canada, conducting the laboratory portion of my PhD thesis. I joined the University of Manitoba, Canada, in 2009 as an assistant professor and I was responsible for the disciplines of operative dentistry and CAD/CAM. My wife and I moved to the United States in 2013 and I became an associate professor at Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio, where I was the director of CAD/CAM and operative dentistry courses.
How I fell in love with dentistry: My family and friends encouraged me to pursue a health care profession. Dentistry was my choice and I absolutely love it.
Research/professional interests: Dental material science and adhesion to dentin.
Hometown: Sao Paulo, Brazil
My family: Although I was born and raised in Brazil, I am a third generation Italian. My great-grandparents came from Calabria and Sicily; we are a true mix of Brazilian and Italian cultures. My wife also shares the same background; we both enjoy a good glass of wine together with an authentic Italian dish.
Favorite thing to do on a day off: Take my three-year-old daughter to a park and play soccer with her.
Three things people may not know about me:
- I was a professional keyboardist when I was a younger. I have a passion for vintage music synthesizers. Currently, I’m searching for a church in the Lincoln area where I can serve and be part of the worship team.
- I am pretty good at grilling the most famous "Brazilian" cut called "Picanha."If you have ever been to a Brazilian steakhouse, you probably know what I’m talking about.
- I am also a Canadian citizen.
What I'm most looking forward to about working at the college: The culture and working with incredibly smart and passionate people. Although I have only been here a short time, I have enjoyed the friendly atmosphere and collegiality of the people.
Professional memberships: American Association for Dental Research, American Dental Education Association, Brazilian Federal Council of Dentistry, International Association for Dental Research, Royal College of Surgeons of Canada