Stephanos Kyrkanides

Stephanos Kyrkanides is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at the University of Rochester School of Medicine & Dentistry. His academic credentials include a D.D.S. from the National University of Athens (1991), a Ph.D. in Neurobiology & Anatomy from the University of Rochester (1999), and postdoctoral training in Molecular Medicine & Gene Therapy at the same institution. He holds certifications in Orthodontics, Temporomandibular Joint Disorders, and Advanced Education in General Dentistry from the Eastman Dental Center.

His research focuses on craniofacial development, neuroinflammation, and gene therapy applications in dental and neurological disorders. Notable projects include studies on IL-1β's role in neurodegeneration and arthritis, TMJ dysfunction mechanisms, and genetic factors influencing facial asymmetry in cleft lip/palate patients. Kyrkanides has received prestigious awards such as the NIH/NIDCR Mentored Clinician Scientist Award and multiple fellowships from the American Association of Orthodontists Foundation.

His publications span over 50 peer-reviewed articles in journals like Journal of Neuroscience, Arthritis & Rheumatism, and Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal. Key themes include cytokine signaling in CNS disorders, gene therapy delivery systems, and longitudinal studies of orthodontic treatment outcomes in craniofacial anomalies.

• Research Labs: Collaborates with neuroimmunology and orthodontic research groups at the University of Rochester Medical Center
• Grants: NIH/NIDCR K08 DE/NS00471 (2001-2005), NIH/NIEHS T32 ES07026 (2000)