Postgraduate Dental College Faculty Member Wins Award for Excellence in Research

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. J. Brett Ryan’s leadership and dedication have elevated oral health care standards within the Department of Defense, demonstrating the real-world impact of research and innovation.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. J. Brett Ryan has been recognized with the Arthur S. Flemming Award in the
Social Science, Clinical Trials, and Translational Research category. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass
Communication Specialist 3rd Class Ikenna Tanaka)

Feb. 12, 2025 by Senior Airman Matthew-John Braman

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. J. Brett Ryan has been recognized with the Arthur S. Flemming Award in the Social Science, Clinical Trials, and Translational Research category, highlighting his exceptional contributions to public service, research, and innovation.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. J. Brett Ryan,
recipient of the Arthur S. Flemming Award,
is recognized for his groundbreaking
contributions to dental research and
innovation. His leadership in tri-service
oral health initiatives and commitment to
operational readiness continue to shape the
future of military dentistry.
(Courtesy photo)

Ryan, a Dental Public Health specialist and assistant professor in the Uniformed Services University's (USU) Postgraduate Dental College, serves as chief of dental epidemiology at the U.S. Air Force Dental Research and Consultation Service, 59th Dental Group, 59th Medical Wing. He leads tri-service strategic oral health research, provides expert consultation across all command levels, and develops innovative solutions to enhance operational dental readiness. His efforts directly contribute to $4 million in research initiatives while mentoring more than 65 dental specialty residents.

During his tenure, Ryan led six tri-service research teams, securing direct funding and contributing to additional research initiatives. He spearheaded the development of dental readiness tools to improve oral health for service members in austere environments and completed an FDA-approved clinical trial for a novel oral health product. Beyond his research, he has been a strong advocate for education and equity, mentoring dental residents and engaging underrepresented youth in STEM fields.

Established in 1948 by George Washington University, the Arthur S. Flemming Award recognizes federal employees for outstanding contributions to public service. The award promotes excellence in federal service, encourages high-performance standards, and highlights the impact of government careers.

Ryan’s leadership and dedication have elevated oral health care standards within the Department of Defense, demonstrating the real-world impact of research and innovation.