KU Leuven Department of Adhesive Dentistry: long-term partnership and transformation of materials research

A long-term partnership between the university and industry in the field of dental materials research has gained new momentum: KU Leuven and GC Europe have officially renewed funding for the Toshio Nakao Chair for the period 2026–2030. The Chair of Adhesive Dentistry (Toshio Nakao Chair for Adhesive Dentistry) is one of the university’s oldest endowed chairs, with its primary mission to advance research in the field of dental adhesive systems and their interaction with tooth structure. The chair is headed by Prof. Bart Van Merbeck, who leads the BIOMAT research group within the Biomedical Sciences Group at KU Leuven.

Nearly Three Decades of Collaboration

The chair was established in 1998 with the support of GC to advance research in adhesive dentistry. Over nearly thirty years of joint work, the partners have directed their scientific efforts toward improving dental materials and adhesive treatment techniques. Official confirmation of the renewal took place on June 23 at KU Leuven, at a ceremony where Prof. Van Merbeck, GC Holding Chief Executive Officer Per Falk, and university rector Prof. Severine Vermeir delivered remarks, after which the agreement was signed.

Research Independence as the Foundation of Success

“The success of this partnership is built on mutual respect for scientific independence,” emphasized Prof. Van Merbeck. Throughout the years, GC has consistently supported objective research, even when the results differed from initial expectations. The Chief Executive Officer of GC Holding highlighted the importance of long-term investments in scientific partnerships: “Since its founding, GC has understood that innovation begins with the ability to listen.” By working closely with customers and researchers, the company gains the knowledge necessary for continuous improvement of dental materials and the enhancement of dental care quality worldwide.

From Fundamental Science to Clinical Practice

Research supported by the chair covers a broad spectrum of the BIOMAT group’s work: from fundamental research into biomaterials and adhesive technologies to clinical evaluation of restorative materials and techniques. This comprehensive approach facilitates the translation of laboratory results into clinical protocols and practical application. The university rector called this collaboration an exemplary model of how higher education institutions and industry can jointly advance research and innovation with pronounced social and clinical significance.

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