Zoe Zhu is a dentist-scientist and Assistant Professor at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine, with a strong foundation in clinical dentistry, research, and advanced computational methods. She completed her dental education and OMFS training in China, where she gained extensive clinical expertise. She later pursued her PhD in Oral Biology, focusing on understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying oral diseases.
Currently, her research integrates artificial intelligence to address oral-systemic health disparities, with a particular emphasis on underserved populations. Her work includes developing predictive models for periodontal disease progression, exploring the links between oral and systemic health, and creating AI-driven tools for home-based periodontal disease screening.
Zhu is also a mentee in the AADOCR MIND the Future Program, where she is mentored by Dr. Flavia Teles. She is passionate about bridging the gap between AI innovation and clinical applications to improve equitable oral health outcomes.
Please briefly describe your background and research interests:
I am a dentist-scientist with a passion for leveraging AI and machine learning to improve oral and systemic health outcomes. My research focuses on developing predictive models that integrate clinical, demographic, and biological data to identify early indicators of periodontal disease and its systemic implications, such as links to cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. One of my significant projects involves building machine learning models for predicting periodontal disease progression using demographic, clinical, and biomarker data. This project has great potential to benefit individuals who have limited access to dental care by enabling them to perform home-based periodontal disease screening. This work, recognized with the CTSN Outstanding Award at the 2024 IADR/AADOCR conference, exemplifies my commitment to translating large-scale medical datasets into practical tools for addressing health disparities.
What has been the most valuable benefit of AADOCR membership to you?
The most valuable benefit of AADOCR membership has been the access to a vibrant community of researchers and clinicians dedicated to advancing dental, oral, and craniofacial research. The annual meetings and conferences have provided me with opportunities to present my work, receive constructive feedback, and stay updated on the latest developments in the field. Additionally, the resources and networking opportunities have been instrumental in fostering collaborations that have enriched my research endeavors. Being part of the Boston local chapter has further enhanced my experience by connecting me with regional professionals and facilitating local events that promote knowledge sharing and community engagement.
What impact do you think the AADOCR Mind the Future Program will have on you, either personally or professionally?
The AADOCR MIND the Future Program is poised to have a profound impact on my professional development. By providing structured mentorship, advanced training, and networking opportunities, the program will enhance my research skills and broaden my understanding of interdisciplinary approaches to health disparities. I am particularly grateful for the guidance of my mentor, Dr. Flavia Teles, whose expertise and support have been invaluable in shaping my research trajectory.
Are you attending the AADOCR Annual Meeting in New York? If so, which parts are you most looking forward to?
Yes, I plan to attend the 2025 AADOCR Annual Meeting in New York. At the 2024 meeting, I attended the session on “Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Applications in Oral Health,” which provided valuable insights into the integration of AI and ML in dental research and practice. This session not only enriched my understanding but also facilitated connections with leading experts in the field, fostering meaningful discussions and potential collaborations. For the 2025 meeting, I am particularly looking forward to sessions that delve deeper into AI-driven diagnostic tools, predictive modeling for oral diseases, and the ethical considerations of implementing AI in clinical settings. Engaging with these topics will be instrumental in advancing my research and contributing to the development of innovative, equitable solutions in oral healthcare.
What is the best way for other members to become more involved in AADOCR?
One of the best ways to get more involved in AADOCR is to actively participate in the annual meetings and conferences, as they offer numerous opportunities for networking, learning, and presenting your work. I also recommend reaching out to the officers of your local AADOCR chapter to explore regional opportunities for engagement and collaboration. For example, the Boston local chapter regularly organizes events that bring together researchers and clinicians to share knowledge and foster connections.
Another way to contribute is by applying to become a member of one of AADOCR’s committees. I currently serve on the Fellowship Committee, which provides a unique platform to work on initiatives that recognize and support outstanding research and researchers in the field. Being part of a committee not only allows you to give back to the organization but also provides professional growth opportunities, builds leadership skills, and expands your network. These experiences are invaluable for both personal and professional development.
