David Wood

Professor David Wood serves as the Head of Oral Biology (2024–present) and Professor of Dental Materials at the University of Leeds School of Dentistry. His academic roles include leading the Biomaterials and Tissue Engineering Research Theme since 2008 and acting as School Impact Lead since 2015. Previously, he held roles such as Director of Research and Innovation (2015–2022), Deputy Chair and Chair of the Dental Research Ethics Committee, and Faculty International Lead (2011–2014).

Prof. Wood’s research focuses on biomaterials science, including collagen-based hydrogels, bioactive glass-ceramics, and digital dentistry workflows. He explores applications in guided bone regeneration, osteochondral tissue engineering, and dental material characterization. His work bridges fundamental materials science with clinical translation, evidenced by co-founding Mimetrik Ltd (2022–) and HYFACOL Ltd (2024–) to commercialize research outcomes.

Education: BSc (Hons) Materials Science (Thames Polytechnic, 1988); PhD in Biomaterials Science (University of Greenwich, 1993) under a CASE Award. Professional memberships include the International Association for Dental Research (IADR).

Research emphasizes biocompatible materials for medical and dental use, including novel composites and 3D-printed scaffolds. His recent studies investigate zirconia implants, silk-reinforced osteochondral scaffolds, and UV-cured collagen membranes. He collaborates widely, contributing to both academic advancements and industry partnerships.