Cristina Godoy
Interim Dean for Research
Nova Southeastern University
USA
Dr. Cristina Godoy is an experienced dental professional and academic leader with over two decades of experience in clinical dentistry, research, and public health. She currently serves as Assistant Dean for Research and Development, Director of Clinical Trials, and Associate Professor at Nova Southeastern University’s College of Dental Medicine, where she leads strategic initiatives to advance research productivity, secure external funding, and foster collaborations among faculty, students, and industry partners.
Dr. Godoy earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery (D.D.S.) degree from Universidad Iberoamericana (UNIBE) in the Dominican Republic and a Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) from Nova Southeastern University. She is also a Certified Clinical Research Professional (C.C.R.P.), accredited by the Society of Clinical Research Associates (SOCRA), reflecting her internationally recognized expertise in clinical research.
Throughout her career, Dr. Godoy has demonstrated a strong commitment to integrating public health principles into dental education and practice. She serves as Chair of the Institutional Review Board at NSU, ensuring the ethical conduct of research involving human participants. Her leadership extends beyond the university as President of the South Florida Chapter of the Hispanic Dental Association and Vice-President of the South Florida Chapter of the American Association for Dental, Oral and Craniofacial Research, where she actively promotes scientific collaboration and advances in oral health research.
Dr. Godoy’s research portfolio is extensive, encompassing more than 30 clinical trials evaluating the safety and eUicacy of dental products and treatments. Her work focuses on oral health, public health integration, and environmental health impacts in South Florida. She has successfully secured millions in external funding and published numerous peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, contributing significantly to advancements in dental medicine.
Her expertise was recognized nationally when she was selected as a contributing author for the 2021 U.S. Surgeon General’s Report on Oral Health, a landmark publication addressing critical issues in oral health across the United States. In addition, Dr. Godoy received the NSU Provost’s Research and Scholarship Award, the university’s highest honor for research excellence, underscoring her impact on scholarship and innovation.
Beyond research, Dr. Godoy is deeply committed to education and mentorship, guiding predoctoral and graduate students in research and fostering the next generation of dental professionals. She serves as Course Director for public health dentistry courses, emphasizing the importance of community health and preventive care.
Dr. Godoy’s career reflects a dedication to advancing dental research, promoting public health initiatives, and improving access to care for vulnerable populations. Her leadership and scholarly contributions continue to shape the future of dental education and practice, both locally and nationally.
