Dr. Ann Decker is an assistant professor in the Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine and a diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology, with a DMD from the University of Florida and a PhD from the University of Michigan. Her research focuses on intercellular signaling mechanisms regulating inflammation in bone, especially how periodontal disease shapes innate immunity and impacts bone regeneration and cancer metastasis. Dr. Decker’s lab uses advanced in vivo and in vitro models and techniques such as RNAseq, flow cytometry, and immunofluorescence, with funding from the NIH and other foundations. She has received multiple honors for her work, including the LEAD program award, Academy for Advancing Leadership Certificate, and American Association of Oral Biologists Oral Biology Award.