The School of Dentistry at IMU University (IMU) proudly announces that A/Prof Dr Ranjeet Ajeet Bapat has successfully completed and passed his Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) examination, marking a significant milestone in translational dental research. His project was primarily supervised by A/Prof Dr Umer Daood in collaboration with several international universities and collaborators.

Dr Ranjeet’s doctoral study explored the modification of a known Quaternary Ammonium Silane compound to bring about a paradigm shift in antimicrobial irrigants used in endodontic and periodontal dentistry. His research offers a pioneering approach to the development of bioactive endodontic irrigants with superior antimicrobial efficacy, bridging the gap between basic scientific innovation and clinical application.

The PhD work stands as an exemplary model of industry–academia collaboration, supported by Fitebac USA Technologies and the Fundamental Research Grant Scheme (FRGS), Malaysia. This partnership reflects the growing emphasis on integrating scientific discovery with practical, market-ready innovations in dental materials and therapeutics.

Building on the foundations of Dr Ranjeet’s PhD work, this research has catalysed further innovations leading to ongoing patent filings and collaborative development projects. One notable extension of this research is a joint initiative with Dalhousie University, Canada, focusing on 3D-oriented titanium constructs designed for bio functional and antimicrobial dental applications. By integrating the antimicrobial chemistry developed through the Quaternary Ammonium Silane modification with advanced additive manufacturing techniques, this collaboration aims to produce next-generation titanium scaffolds and implant surfaces that promote osseointegration while actively resisting microbial colonisation. The project underscores IMU’s growing global footprint in biomaterial innovation and translational dentistry, bridging molecular science, material engineering, and clinical relevance in the pursuit of smarter regenerative dental solutions.

Throughout his PhD journey at IMU, Dr Ranjeet has demonstrated remarkable academic productivity, authored five original research papers and co-authored seven additional publications related to his field of study. His research has been featured in prestigious international journals such as Dental Materials, Microchemical Journal, Macromolecular Bioscience, Nature Scientific Reports, International Dentistry Journal, BMC Oral Health, Heliyon, and Frontiers in Dental Medicine, collectively achieving an impact factor of 47.1.

He has also represented IMU at major international platforms, including the International Association for Dental Research (IADR) in Australia, the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (RACDS) meeting, and the IAP 20th Biennial Joint Scientific Conference, showcasing IMU’s contribution to global dental science.

“We extend our sincere appreciation to Prof Seow Liang Lin (in the photo on the left) and Prof Khoo Suan Phaik (standing at the back in the photo on the right) for their valuable co-supervision, guidance, and mentorship throughout this journey,” said A/Prof Dr Umer Daood, Dr Ranjeet’s principal supervisor.