ATLANTA — Georgia School of Orthodontics (GSO) has appointed Mohamed I. Masoud, BDS, DMSc, a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics, as its new Director of Research, strengthening the institution’s focus on innovation and evidence-based orthodontics.
Dr. Masoud is a widely respected orthodontist, educator and researcher with extensive experience in both academic leadership and private practice. He earned his orthodontic certificate and Doctorate of Medical Sciences from Harvard School of Dental Medicine and has held senior academic roles at several leading institutions.
These include serving as Orthodontic Clinical Director at Boston University’s Henry M. Goldman School of Dental Medicine and later as Director of Orthodontics at Harvard. Most recently, he was an Associate Professor of Orthodontics at the Howard College of Dentistry.
Alongside his academic career, Dr. Masoud has nearly two decades of experience in private orthodontic practice. This combination of research, teaching and clinical work has shaped his approach to translational research, which focuses on turning scientific discoveries into practical tools that improve patient care.
He has been a member of the Edward H. Angle Society of Orthodontists since 2011, an honor that recognizes outstanding clinical excellence and leadership in the specialty.
In his new role, Dr. Masoud will lead research initiatives at the Lazzara Orthodontic Center for Research, GSO’s advanced research and innovation facility. He will also mentor residents directly, guiding them through research design, data analysis and scientific writing.
“Dr. Masoud’s blend of clinical insight and academic achievement aligns closely with our mission,” said Nandakumar Janakiraman, BDS, MDS, Chief Academic Officer and Dean of GSO. “He is a prolific innovator whose work emphasizes testing academic concepts in real-world settings to advance orthodontic care.”
Dr. Masoud is known for developing several patented technologies that have influenced modern orthodontics. His work includes a hybrid approach to tooth movement that expands the effectiveness of clear aligners, a 3D dentofacial diagnostic system that uses specialized photography instead of X-rays, and the application of artificial intelligence to assist in aligner design.
He was also the first researcher to publish findings on the use of Insulin-like Growth Factor-1 (IGF-1) as a biological marker for skeletal maturity. This method provides more accurate predictions of facial growth than traditional X-ray-based techniques and earned him the American Association of Orthodontists’ Harry Sicher Research Award.
“I am honored to join Georgia School of Orthodontics and lead a research program that values both academic rigor and community impact,” Dr. Masoud said. “GSO’s scale, academic foundation and commitment to innovation create a unique opportunity to advance orthodontic research.”
Founded in 2016, GSO has grown into the world’s largest orthodontic training program, with a total enrollment of 135 residents. Over nearly a decade, the institution has provided more than $290,000 in complimentary care and helped local families save an estimated $46.6 million in orthodontic treatment costs. GSO also supports the community through public lectures, workshops and collaborative initiatives.
Dr. Masoud said the size and diversity of GSO’s resident body will allow the research center to pursue multiple projects simultaneously, accelerating progress in the field.
“Under Dr. Masoud’s leadership, GSO is well positioned to address key research questions in orthodontics, particularly around clear aligner therapy,” said Randy Kluender, DDS, MS, President of GSO. “This includes their use in growing patients and how design, materials and manufacturing influence treatment outcomes.”
