AAID Foundation names Dr. Hieu Michael Pham 2026 Buhite Scholarship recipient

The American Academy of Implant Dentistry Foundation selected Dr. Hieu Michael Pham, a periodontology resident at the University of Rochester Medical Center’s Eastman Institute for Oral Health, for its 2026 Buhite Scholarship. The award supports advanced training in implant dentistry and recognizes academic, research, leadership and patient-care excellence.

Why it matters: - The Buhite Scholarship helps fund advanced dental implantology training for clinicians who are shaping the next generation of patient care. - The award also signals which emerging researchers and educators in implant dentistry are drawing national recognition.

What happened: - The American Academy of Implant Dentistry Foundation named Dr. Hieu Michael Pham the 2026 recipient of the AAID Buhite Scholarship. - Dr. Pham is a periodontology resident at the University of Rochester Medical Center’s Eastman Institute for Oral Health. - The announcement was made Aug. 5, 2026.

The details: - Dr. Pham is completing a Certificate of Advanced Specialty in Periodontics at the University of Rochester. - Dr. Pham is also pursuing a Master of Health Professions Education. - His research focuses on peri-implant disease, host-biomaterial interactions, tissue engineering, regenerative medicine and biomaterials for dental implant applications. - Dr. Pham’s record includes peer-reviewed publications, a U.S. patent related to tissue engineering biomaterials and multiple national research and professional awards. - The Buhite Scholarship recognizes clinicians pursuing advanced education in implant dentistry and related fields who show excellence in academics, research, leadership and patient care. - The scholarship provides financial assistance to U.S. citizens and permanent residents enrolled in doctorate or post-doctorate education in university- or hospital-based dental implantology programs. - Scholarship funds are paid directly to the recipient’s institution to support academic and clinical development. - The AAID Foundation supports research, education and charitable initiatives aimed at advancing implant dentistry and improving patient care worldwide. - More information is available in the AAID Foundation scholarship page.

Between the lines: - The selection highlights the AAID Foundation’s focus on clinician-scientists, not just practitioners with strong clinical credentials. - Dr. Pham’s mix of periodontics, education research and biomaterials work suggests the scholarship is aimed at recipients who can influence both treatment and training.

What's next: - Dr. Pham will continue his specialty training and graduate education at the University of Rochester. - The AAID Foundation is expected to keep using the scholarship program to support future implant dentistry trainees.

The bottom line: - The 2026 Buhite Scholarship goes to a clinician-researcher whose work spans periodontics, implant science and health professions education.