Janice Jackson

Janice Jackson serves as Professor and Chair of Pediatric Dentistry at the University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Dentistry. She also holds Senior Scientist positions at the Global Center for Craniofacial, Oral and Dental Disorders (GC-CODED) and the Civitan International Research Center, along with an Associate Scientist role in the School of Medicine.

Dr. Jackson earned her Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) and Bachelor of Science in Biology from UAB in 1976 and 1972 respectively. Her career at UAB spans over 24 years with progressive appointments from Assistant Professor to full Professor and Department Chair.

Her research focuses on pediatric dental sedation techniques, craniofacial disorders, and public health initiatives to improve children's oral health. She has led community outreach programs through the National Children's Oral Health Foundation and secured multiple HRSA-funded training grants for dental residencies.

Dr. Jackson's scholarly work includes research on comparative efficacy of sedation protocols, particularly examining chloral hydrate/promethazine versus meperidine/promethazine combinations for managing pediatric dental anxiety.

She actively mentors graduate students as evidenced by her committee participation for thesis candidates and teaches extensively across the pediatric dentistry curriculum including clinical courses, board preparation, and specialized topics like hospital dentistry and Spanish for dental professionals.

Dr. Jackson directs multiple programs including the Pediatric Dentistry department since 2000, the Global Center for Craniofacial Disorders since 2017, and previously served as Interim Department Chair from 2018-2019 before assuming the permanent Chair position in 2019.