University of Glasgow Professor David Conway Honored With 2026 IADR H. Trendley Dean Memorial Award for Public Health Leadership

University of Glasgow Professor David Conway is honored by the IADR for his meritorious research in epidemiology and oral health inequalities.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 1, 2026, 4:26 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research

A Career Dedicated to Addressing Global Oral Health Disparities

The International Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (IADR) has officially recognized David Conway for his profound contributions to the fields of epidemiology and dental public health. As a Professor at the University of Glasgow and an Honorary Consultant for Public Health Scotland, Conway has spent his career investigating the structural drivers of health inequality. The award, presented during the Opening Ceremonies in San Diego, acknowledges his role as a leading global authority on the social determinants of oral disease. By focusing on the systemic barriers that prevent equitable care, he has provided a scientific foundation for policies that aim to improve health outcomes for the most vulnerable members of society.

Academic Foundation and Research in Head and Neck Cancer

Conway’s academic journey began at the University of Glasgow, where he earned both his Bachelor of Dental Surgery and his PhD. His research program has since evolved into a comprehensive exploration of the cancer continuum, specifically focusing on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. Through the use of advanced data linkage and epidemiological modeling, he has provided critical insights into risk factors, disease burden, and long-term survival outcomes. This work is essential for developing targeted interventions that can catch oral cancers in their earliest stages, particularly in populations where socioeconomic factors often delay diagnosis and treatment.

Leading Multi-Million Pound Public Health Initiatives

The scale of Conway’s influence is evidenced by a research portfolio that has attracted over £15 million in funding from government, charitable, and European sources. This financial support has enabled him to lead complex evaluations of public health interventions and national policies. His methodological expertise in systematic reviews and meta-analyses has made him a sought-after collaborator for major research consortia. By bridging the gap between clinical data and national health strategy, he ensures that high-level research is translated into practical programs that can be implemented at the community level to reduce the overall burden of oral disease.