“We are not just working on animal models just for the sake of discovery, but using it to gain a better understanding of what is wrong in human disease. This research puts us in the translational side of science which is really exciting. If we understand the cause of a congenital birth defect, we can use the information to provide better diagnosis and ultimately, prevention of the malformation.”
Front row (from left): Julie Mayo, Akiko Susuki, Arum Han, Jifan Feng, Gilian Zhong, Carolina Parada, Pedro Sanchez Back row (from left): Jingyuan Li, Thach-Vu Ho, Yang Chai, Richard Pelikan, Junichi Iwata, Mark Urata, Hu Zhao.
TEACHER, MENTOR AND CLINICIAN Dr. Chai's extensive accomplishments are not limited to his contributions as a highly decorated scientist, but also extend to his leadership and mentoring abilities that have proven to be effective in inspiring younger faculty and student researchers. However weighty the demands are of his work as a researcher, Dr. Chai still finds time to teach the Head and Neck Anatomy class for the students at the Ostrow School of Dentistry. His training in anatomy and oral-maxillofacial surgery make him an ideal candidate to teach head and neck anatomy which is fundamental to oral health care.
“Teaching makes me appreciate the importance of anatomy, it is a great experience and I love the interaction with the students." His belief in encouraging the next
generation of scientists is evident; he currently mentors four dental students (one of whom won the 2012 best undergraduate dental student research award) and two undergraduates who are interested in dentistry and medicine. Dr. Chai also maintains an active clinical practice. “I really
value my clinical training and my clinical practice helps me focus on the areas of research that can make a difference for my patients”. His clinical practice keeps him in touch with the most pressing needs of his patients and has served as an inspiration on more than one occasion. In fact, his jawbone regeneration research was directly inspired by his clinical practice. 9