Dean and professor of NSU’s College of Dental Medicine Linda Niessen was recently declared a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science, or the AAAS. The AAAS is the world’s largest multidisciplinary scientific society and is a leading publisher of cutting-edge research. They strive to “advance science, engineering and innovation throughout the world for the benefit of all people.” Niessen was elected by her peers in the AAAS to receive this recognition.
Niessen received her bachelor’s degree in chemistry from the University of New Mexico and her doctorate of Dental Medicine, master’s in Public Health and master’s in Public Policy from Harvard University. Previously, she served as a clinical professor at Texas A&M University’s Baylor College of Dentistry in the Department of Restorative Dentistry before joining the NSU community in 2013. Her specialties include geriatric oral research and education, epidemiology of oral diseases in older adults and oral health public policy.
“It is truly an honor to be named a Fellow by this prestigious group of peers,” said Neissen. “The AAAS promotes scientific discovery, translational research and science education throughout the world. The interdisciplinary nature of the members of AAAS advances and strengthens the field of dentistry by supporting research and discoveries that will ultimately benefit patients around the globe.”
Niessen is one of 396 members who were chosen by their peers to receive this honor for “scientifically or socially distinguished efforts to advance science or its applications.” She was particularly praised for her work in the field of dental public health, specifically with geriatric oral medicine, dental services and health policy. She will be inducted as a fellow at the AAAS Annual Meeting in Austin, Texas, on Feb. 17.
