EFP honours leading figures in periodontology

During its General Assembly held on 21 March 2026, the European Federation of Periodontology (EFP) recognized three outstanding contributors to the field with its prestigious annual awards, celebrating excellence in research, service, and global impact.

The EFP International Eminence Award was presented to Professor Purnima Kumar (USA), a globally recognized leader in periodontology and oral-systemic health.

Currently Chair of the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine at the University of Michigan, Professor Kumar is widely known for her work on the oral microbiome and its links to systemic diseases. She leads a long-standing, NIH-funded research programme focused on microbial ecology and has authored more than 100 scientific publications and book chapters.

Her work has made a major contribution to advancing our understanding of the links between oral and overall health, particularly in relation to microbial dysbiosis and inflammation.

She has also played important roles in international scientific organizations, including the EFP, as well as on editorial boards, helping to shape research agendas and support the next generation of researchers.

The EFP Distinguished Scientist Award was granted to Professor Marc Quirynen (Department of Oral Health Sciences, KU Leuven, Belgium), in recognition of his long-standing contribution to periodontal research and clinical science.

Professor Quirynen is internationally recognized for his research in oral microbiology, periodontal therapy, and halitosis, fields in which he has made major contributions to both scientific understanding and clinical practice. His work has explored the role of oral bacteria in periodontal diseases and has helped improve both diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

Over several decades, he has been a prominent figure in the European periodontal community and has contributed extensively to scientific literature and education, including through his participation in major international congresses such as EuroPerio.

The EFP Distinguished Service Award was presented to Professor Monique Danser (Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam, ACTA, Netherlands), in recognition of her exceptional commitment to the federation and the periodontal community.

Professor Danser served as EFP Treasurer for two terms, making a significant contribution to the federation’s development and stability. Her involvement has encompassed scientific, organizational, and educational activities, reflecting a sustained commitment to advancing periodontology across Europe and beyond.

As both a researcher and a clinician, she has also contributed to the scientific literature, including studies on oral hygiene and periodontal health.

Her longstanding engagement with the EFP and its initiatives has helped strengthen collaboration within the international periodontal community.

The recognition of Professors Kumar, Quirynen, and Danser reflects the global and collaborative nature of the EFP, and the importance of continued exchange between clinicians, researchers, and organizations working to improve oral health worldwide.