Ann Arbor, MI — September 1, 2012 — Dr. Nisha D’Silva, professor in the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, recently became the first North American recipient of a prestigious award for her work in oral pathology during a recent international conference in Brazil.

D’Silva received the Rod Cawson Prize Lecture Award from the International Association of Oral Pathologists and the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow which recognizes excellence in the science and practice of oral pathology.  The award is presented to a researcher, clinician or scientist whose studies or clinical practice involves diagnosing and managing oral and maxillofacial diseases.

A pathologist who is involved in research, teaching, and clinical practice, D’Silva’s research focuses on mechanisms that promote oral cancer progression.  They include identifying biomarkers that offer clues that can assist in the early detection of oral cancers, predicting which tumors will behave aggressively, and whether targeting the biomarkers will inhibit tumor growth.  Understanding these processes may one day lead to developing treatments that are unique for each patient.

“I am honored to receive this award which adds to the recognition of the University of Michigan School of Dentistry as an international leader in clinical practice and research in oral pathology,” D’Silva said.  After receiving the award, D’Silva presented a lecture about her work.