Professor Luke Dawson has been appointed as the new Dean of the School of Dentistry at the University of Liverpool.
Professor Dawson, a proud Liverpool native, has spent nearly three decades at the University of Liverpool. He earned both his BSc in Physiology and his BDS (hons) from the University before completing his PhD in 2001, researching salivary gland hypofunction in Sjögren’s syndrome.
Professor Dawson's notable achievements in dental education include leading the small team that created LiftUpp, a groundbreaking digital tool that revolutionised student assessment and development practices in the dental teaching clinics. His leadership in education has earned him national recognition, including a National Teaching Fellowship and a Fellowship by election with the Royal College of Surgeons of England for services to dental education. Professor Dawson also brings experience from his extensive work with the General Dental Council, having served as Chair of the Overseas Registration Examination Advisory Group.
As the new Dean, Professor Dawson is committed to fostering the growth and development of students and staff at the School of Dentistry, ensuring its future as a leader in dental education. Professor Dawson said of his appointment: "It is truly an honour to have the opportunity to be the Dean at the School in which I trained. As we look ahead, I am excited for a future where the school’s reputation continues to thrive and our commitment to the local community strengthens. This growth will be driven by our most valuable assets - the amazing staff and students."
Professor Dawson succeeds Professor Vince Bissell, who retired in December 2024 after an esteemed career in dental education.
Professor Bissell, who served as Dean of the School from 2017 to 2024, began his academic journey with a BDS from the University of Leeds in 1985 before going on to earn a PhD from Edinburgh University in 1995. Prior to his tenure at Liverpool, he held a distinguished career at the University of Glasgow, where he served as Professor of Restorative Dentistry and Dental Education. Professor Bissell’s contributions to dental education include his role in significant reforms to curriculum and assessment and his leadership in shaping the School’s academic culture. In addition to his teaching work, he maintained a clinical practice in restorative dentistry and periodontology. The School extends its heartfelt thanks to Professor Bissell for his dedication and leadership over the years and wishes him an enjoyable retirement.