UCMD researchers secure top honors at SOD-PADR conference

ISLAMABAD: Researchers from the University College of Medicine and Dentistry (UCMD), The University of Lahore, secured the Rising Scholar Award and first position in the Oral Poster Presentation Category at the SOD–SZABMU International Dental Conference 2026 and the 9th Annual Conference of the Pakistan Association for Dental Research (PADR), IADR Pakistan Section, in Islamabad.

Dr. Immad Ahmad Munir and Zainab Fatima received the recognition for their research presented at the two-day conference, held at the Park China Friendship Center in Islamabad. Their work was conducted under the supervision of Dr. Aqsa Arif.

The conference brought together dental researchers, academicians, clinicians, postgraduate trainees and students for scientific presentations and academic exchange.

The recognition placed the UCMD researchers among the leading presenters at the conference and highlighted the participation of emerging dental researchers in competitive scientific forums.

For Dr. Immad Ahmad Munir and Zainab Fatima, the awards also represented an opportunity to present their research before an audience of dental academics and professionals while gaining exposure to current research and developments in oral health sciences.

Dr. Aqsa Arif's role extended beyond supervising the research. She also played a key role in the conference's organizing team, with UCMD representatives contributing to the organization of the academic event.

Her involvement, alongside the recognition received by the UCMD researchers, reflected the institution's participation in both the scientific and organizational aspects of the conference.

The event provided a platform for researchers at different stages of their careers to exchange ideas, present scientific findings and engage with peers and senior academics from across the dental community.

For young dental researchers, such conferences can also provide valuable experience in scientific communication, research presentation and interaction with established researchers, helping strengthen their academic profiles early in their careers.

The UCMD researchers' recognition adds to the institution's research and academic activities, while its involvement in organizing the conference further reflects its engagement with dental research and professional collaboration.

The achievement of Dr. Immad Ahmad Munir and Zainab Fatima underscores the growing role of young researchers in Pakistan's dental research community and the importance of providing structured opportunities for them to present and develop their work.