Stephen Cox

Associate Professor Stephen Cox serves as Head of the Discipline of Oral Surgery at the Sydney Dental School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney. He is also a Member of the Sydney Southeast Asia Centre, reflecting his international engagement in dental education and clinical practice.

Professor Cox completed his dental training, Masters, and PhD at the University of Sydney. His educational background has provided the foundation for his extensive career in oral surgery, with significant international experience gained through work in the UK and Nepal.

His primary research focuses on Oral Submucous Fibrosis and the mechanisms of scar tissue formation, which originated from his clinical work in Nepal treating cleft lip and palate patients. Additional research areas include Pericytes in wound healing, Bone regeneration, and the development of evidence-based dental education programs. He has established an Evidence-based practice program as a foundational element in training final year dental students and maintains a strong interest in improving dental services and appropriate training in remote and regional areas.

Professor Cox's recent publications (2020-2024) demonstrate continued focus on clinical dental practice, oral pathology, and dental education. His work spans dental infections requiring hospitalization, radiographic interpretation by dentists, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on dental education, with a significant body of research examining the effects of areca nut use on oral health through studies on arecoline's impact on endothelial cells and fibroblasts.

His notable scientific awards include:

• Order of Australia Medal (OAM) – for work amongst the people of Nepal – 1999
• Excellence in Teaching Award – 2000
• Professor Roland Bryant Award for 'Innovation and Excellence in Teaching' – 2012
• Fellowship from the Pierre Fauchard Academy - 2002
• Fellowship from the International College of Dentists - 2004
• Fellowship from the Academy of Dentists International - 2006

Professor Cox has secured numerous research grants focusing on Oral Submucosal Fibrosis and arecoline effects, with funding from the Australian Dental Research Foundation, Dental Board of NSW, and Australian Dental Association. His international collaborations are extensive, including work with WHO, UK, Malaysia, and Japan on developing a Masters in Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery. He regularly visits Cambodia for international cooperation to deliver post-graduate training and maintains active membership in multiple professional associations including the Australian Dental Association, British Association of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons, and Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons.