Spring Synergy 2026
Spring Synergy brings the College of Dentistry community together to celebrate science and innovation. This annual event features research poster presentations, keynote lectures, and an ASDA-hosted vendor fair, highlighting the work of students, faculty, and staff. Organized in partnership with the College of Dentistry Office of Research, Continuing Dental Education, the American Student Dental Association (ASDA), and the Robert L. Kaplan Visiting Professorship Fund, Spring Synergy provides a platform for recognition, awards, and lifelong learning.
Final Program & Abstract Book
The full Spring Synergy 2026 program, including all accepted abstracts and presenter details, is now available.
You can download it from the link below. Please note that you must be at one of our facilities or connected via VPN to access the file.
Distinguished Keynote Speakers
Spring Synergy 2026 proudly features two keynote presentations highlighting research excellence and innovation.
Topic: Precision Oral Health: Decoding Dental Disease and Systemic Connections
Topic: The double-edged sword of Nuclear-Related Transcription Factor 2 (NRF2) in microenvironments of chronic inflammation and immune evasion within the oral mucosa
About the Robert L. Kaplan Visiting Professorship
The Robert L. Kaplan Scholar Keynote honors the legacy of Robert L. Kaplan, D.D.S., a past president of the American Academy of Restorative Dentistry and a pivotal figure in the establishment of the UF College of Dentistry.
In 1969, Dr. Kaplan served as chair of the Dental Advisory Committee that successfully made the case to the Florida Legislature for the creation of a dental school in Florida. He later served as the keynote speaker at the college’s first commencement ceremony in 1976, marking a foundational moment in our history.
Following his passing in 1989, the South Florida Dental Association established the Robert L. Kaplan Visiting Professorship to ensure his legacy of service and scholarship would continue. By supporting the invitation of nationally and internationally recognized scholars to Spring Synergy, this professorship fulfills Dr. Kaplan’s vision of a dental community dedicated to lifelong learning, scientific inquiry, and the advancement of the profession.
ASDA Vendor Fair
Hosted by the American Student Dental Association, the Vendor Fair connects attendees with industry partners showcasing products, services, and resources relevant to dental education and clinical practice.
Additional event details will be provided closer to the date.
Location
J. Wayne Reitz Union
655 Reitz Union Drive
Gainesville, Florida
United States, 32603
Dates
Registration period:
January 1, 2026 - 11:38 AM EST - April 8, 2026 - 5:00 PM EDT
Submission period:
February 2, 2026 - 6:00 AM EST - March 11, 2026 - 11:59 PM EDT
Contact us
If you have any questions, please contact DN-Office-of-Research@ad.ufl.edu
