Dr. Hung Ton-That Appointed Chair of Division of Oral and Systemic Health Sciences and Dr. No-Hee Park Endowed Chair

Dr. Hung Ton-That in a garden
Dr. Hung Ton-That, a widely-published microbiologist and educator, has served on the School’s faculty since 2018.
February 4, 2025

The UCLA School of Dentistry has announced the appointment of Dr. Hung Ton-That as the new Chair of the Division of Oral and Systemic Health Sciences, effective Feb. 1, 2025. He will also hold the Dr. No-Hee Park Chair in Dentistry.

Dr. Ton-That, a widely-published microbiologist and educator, has served on the School’s faculty since 2018. His research has significantly advanced the understanding of Gram-positive pathogens, oxidative protein folding, and the virulence mechanisms of Fusobacterium nucleatum – an oral pathobiont linked to colorectal cancer – oral squamous cell carcinoma, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Dr. Ton-That’s contributions to the field are recognized by his 2018 election as a fellow of the American Academy of Microbiology.

“Dr. Ton-That’s expertise and leadership in microbiology and oral health science make him an outstanding choice to lead the Division,” said Dr. Paul H. Krebsbach, Dean of the UCLA School of Dentistry. “His commitment to scientific discovery and interdisciplinary collaboration will further elevate our mission in research, education, and patient care.”

Dr. Ton-That’s academic journey includes faculty positions at the University of Connecticut Health Center and the University of Texas McGovern Medical School, where he expanded his research on Gram-positive pili, biofilm formation, and bacterial pathogenesis. His postdoctoral work at the University of Chicago alongside Dr. Olaf Schneewind established new insights into pilus assembly in Corynebacterium diphtheriae, laying the foundation for further discoveries in bacterial adhesion and virulence. A double UCLA alumnus, Dr. Ton-That earned his Ph.D. in microbiology in 2000 and a B.S. in chemistry in 1996.

In his new role, Dr. Ton-That aims to drive innovation and collaboration within the Division, training the next generation of researchers. Through the Ton-That Lab he has mentored more than 80 budding scientists, from undergraduates to postdoctoral scholars.

“I am honored to take on this leadership position at a time when oral health research is increasingly recognized for its impact on systemic health,” said Dr. Ton-That. “I look forward to working with our talented faculty and students to advance our understanding of microbial pathogenesis and improve patient outcomes.”