about us uf college of dentistry – office of research

As associate dean for research, Dr. Gordan facilitates research endeavors benefiting faculty and students. Dr. Gordan also provides leadership in both the scientific and administrative communities.

Ronda manages the Office of Research, guiding faculty and staff to meet agency, UF, state, and federal compliance. She tracks research statistics, prepares promotion and tenure metrics, advises on effort reports, and compiles annual reports for the university and college.

Christi directs pre‑ and post‑award activities for the Office of Research, overseeing submission of institutional and individual training grants and career‑development awards (T, F, K) while providing expert guidance on complex P and U award proposals.

Lori supports the pre-award, proposals and post-award enterprise of the college. She is responsible for all pre- and post-award activities including the submission of proposals for the Department of Oral Biology.

Ryan supports the pre-award, proposals and post-award enterprise of the college. He is responsible for all pre- and post-award activities including the submission of proposals for the Department of Community Dentistry & Behavioral Science.

Chassidi supports the pre-award, proposals, and post-award enterprise of the college. Is responsible for all pre- and post-award activities, including submitting proposals for Oral & Maxillofacial Diagnostic Sciences, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, Restorative Dental Sciences and the School of Advanced Dental Sciences.

Maria oversees all facets of the college’s training grants, handling renewals, trainee appointments, and fund tracking across the programs she manages: Dr. Lemos’ T90/R90 Comprehensive Oral Biology Training Grant, Dr. Fillingim’s T32 IMPART Training Grant, and Dr. Cruz-Almeida’s T90/R90 UF PAIN TEAM Training Grant.

Denise supports student research programs by coordinating program activities and assisting with research-related events. She provides administrative and logistical support for initiatives such as Spring Synergy and serves as a point of contact for students and faculty involved in student research. Her efforts weave together students, faculty, and the community, advancing the college’s research mission.

Renita supports research protocols, clinical proposals, IRB submissions, study implementation, and compliance. Since 2014 she has worked within the DCRU, providing expertise for numerous clinical research studies.