Jim Yuan Lai

Professor Lai received a Bachelor of Science in Molecular Genetics and Biology from the University of Toronto, Trinity College in 1993 and a Doctor of Dental Medicine in 1997 from the University of Pennsylvania. He completed a Master of Science and advance dental specialty training in periodontology at the University of Toronto in 2000. He was a 2008 graduate of the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education of the University of Toronto where he received a Master of Education. Professor Lai then received a Doctor of Education in Higher Education Management from the University of Pennsylvania in 2013. Professor Lai is a Fellow of the Royal College of Dentists of Canada, International College of Dentists, American College of Dentists and Pierre Fauchard Academy. He is also Diplomate of the American Board of Periodontology and International Congress of Oral Implantologists.

Professor Lai joined the Faculty of Dentistry, University of Toronto in 2001. He served in various roles such as Director of Graduate Periodontology, Discipline Head of Periodontology, Associate Dean of Clinical Sciences and Vice Dean of Education. He was promoted to Professor, Teaching Stream in 2021. In recognition of his exceptional contribution to dental education at Canadian universities, he was awarded the National Dental Teaching Award by the Association of Canadian Faculties of Dentistry. He also a recipient of the Canadian Academy of Periodontology Distinguished Service Award and the American Academy of Periodontology Educator Award.

He has been awarded the Vice-Regal Commendation, QEII Golden and Diamond Jubilee Medals, Coronation Medal, Canadian Forces' Decoration Medal, and is a Knight of Justice in the Order of St. John.