Dr. Farjad Zafar, Pakistan’s youngest FICOI, earns Ph.D. in Dental and Biomaterials Sciences

KARACHI: Dr. Farjad Zafar has achieved yet another remarkable milestone! Already recognized as Pakistan’s youngest Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI), USA, Dr. Zafar has now successfully defended his Ph.D. in Dental and Biomaterials Sciences, becoming the first candidate from the 2021 inaugural batch of Baqai Dental College to earn this prestigious doctorate.

His doctoral research, "Formulation of Oral Xerogels as a Local Drug Delivery System," focuses on the development of advanced drug delivery methods for periodontal and peri-implant diseases. The open-house defense attracted faculty members, postgraduate students, and professionals from dental, medical, and pharmaceutical fields, emphasizing the interdisciplinary impact of his work.

Pioneering Research: The Future of Drug Delivery in Dentistry

Oral xerogels are an innovative drug delivery system that ensures sustained and localized release of therapeutic agents within the oral cavity. Dr. Zafar’s research aims to overcome the limitations of conventional treatments, paving the way for more effective, patient-friendly dental solutions.

Key Benefits of Oral Xerogels:

✅ Localized drug delivery for enhanced treatment efficiency
✅ Reduced systemic side effects compared to traditional methods
✅ Potential to revolutionize periodontal and peri-implant therapy

A Well-Deserved Recognition

Dr. Zafar’s thesis defense was rigorously evaluated by a distinguished panel, including:

• Prof. Dr. Syed Muhammad Kefi Iqbal – Dean, Sindh Institute of Oral Health Sciences & Head of Dental Materials, Jinnah Sindh Medical University
• Dr. Muhammad Khawaja Hammad Uddin – Vice-Principal & Assistant Professor, Dr. Eshrat-ul-Ebad Khan Institute of Oral Health Sciences, DUHS
• Prof. Dr. Adel Zia Siddiqui – Head of Dental Materials Sciences, Baqai Dental College

Their critical assessment and rigorous questioning were met with confident and well-researched responses from Dr. Zafar, earning widespread acclaim for his thorough knowledge and expertise.

The event was attended by renowned dental and academic professionals, including:

• Prof. Dr. Asaad Javaid – Dean, Baqai Dental College
• Prof. Dr. Shakila Nazir – Associate Dean
• Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ali Sheraz – Director
• Dr. Zubair Anwar – Deputy Director
• Prof. Dr. Sofia Ahmed – Dean, Baqai Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Their presence highlighted the significance of Dr. Zafar’s research in bridging the fields of dental and pharmaceutical sciences, emphasizing a multidisciplinary approach to oral healthcare advancements.

Dr. Farjad Zafar: A Journey of Excellence

• Dr. Zafar’s accomplishments are a testament to his dedication and expertise in dental sciences:
• Graduated from Baqai Dental College in 2013 with multiple distinctions
• Earned an M.Sc. in Dental Implantology from Cardiff University, Wales, UK (2016)
• Became Pakistan’s youngest FICOI (2018)

Currently serving as:
✔ Assistant Professor, Department of Dental Materials Sciences, Baqai Dental College
✔ Head of the Department of Dental Implantology, Baqai Dental College
✔ Clinical Operations Director, Executive Dental Clinic, Baqai Dental Hospital

Beyond academia, Dr. Zafar is actively mentoring future dental professionals, ensuring the next generation of dentists and biomaterials researchers continue to push the boundaries of innovation.

His work is a beacon of inspiration for aspiring dental professionals in Pakistan and beyond!

For collaborations, professional inquiries, or further details about his groundbreaking research, Dr. Farjad Zafar can be reached through Baqai Dental College or his professional networks.