Dr. Daniel Malamud, a senior scientist specializing in anti-HIV agents and oral-based diagnostics, has joined the NYU College of Dentistry as a Professor of Basic Science and Craniofacial Biology and Director of the HIV/AIDS Research Program. Dr. Malamud was recruited with the support of a $750,000 award from the New York State Office of Science Technology and Academic Research (NYSTAR) Faculty Development Program, which assists universities in the recruitment and retention of leading research faculty in science and technology fields with strong commercial potential. The NYSTAR award will be used primarily to renovate laboratory space for Dr. Malamud.
The area of oral-based diagnostics is a rapidly evolving field that has developed from the realization that most molecules present in blood can also be detected within the oral cavity, thus providing a relatively non-invasive diagnostic method. “Several years ago, the NYU College of Dentistry identified infectious diseases as an area to be targeted for growth and development in support of improved public health,” explained Dr. Louis Terracio, associate dean for research. “The NYSTAR award offers a wonderful opportunity to advance HIV/AIDS research toward this goal. We are honored to partner with New York State on this important initiative.”
“As a result of Governor Pataki’s commitment to attract the best and the brightest researchers to New York’s research institutions and his long-standing, steadfast support of high technology programs, NYSTAR was able to make this faculty development award to the NYU College of Dentistry,” said Russell W. Bessette, M.D., executive director of NYSTAR. “Dr. Malamud will be an outstanding addition to the college’s faculty. As an expert in his field of study, Dr. Malamud will perform research that will lead to important advances in diagnostic methods, and this in turn will potentially create new economic opportunities for New York State.”
Dr. Malamud’s research, which has been continuously funded by the NIH for over 20 years, deals with HIV pathogenesis, the design of anti-HIV drugs, and novel diagnostics using oral samples. His investigations in these areas have involved human salivary proteins that inhibit HIV infectivity and the discovery and development of anti-HIV compounds that can be used to prevent HIV infection in women. In addition to his research, Dr. Malamud will also mentor young scientists at the NYU College of Dentistry and build on a proven record of entrepreneurial success in taking basic research observations and translating the intellectual property they represent into patents, small business formation, and potential clinical trials.