An LSU Alum's Quest for Dental Innovation

Originally from Qingdao, a coastal city in China's Shandong Peninsula, Dr. Jirun Sun's love for chemistry began in high school. This early passion led him to pursue a bachelor's degree in general chemistry and a master's degree in organic chemistry. 

After working four years at Dainippon Ink & Chemicals, Inc. (DIC), a Japanese chemical company in his hometown, Sun sought to deepen his research impact, ultimately leading him to Louisiana State University. 

"After working at DIC, I wanted to explore research that wasn't just high volume but something more innovative," Sun said. "So, I applied to graduate school at LSU to work with Professor Paul Russo because of his published work in liquid crystals."

Sun's decision to attend LSU was inspired by Russo's work in liquid crystals and dendrimers, two research areas Sun encountered during his master's program. Throughout his doctoral studies at LSU, Sun gained a foundation in materials characterization, giving him a versatile skill set that would prove essential in his career. 

After earning his Ph.D. in 2006, Sun joined the National Institute of Standards and Technology, or NIST, mentored by Dr. Sheng Lin-Gibson, where he broadened his expertise in dental materials and tissue engineering. Sun gained insights into dental materials science, further refining his research focus because of the collaboration of NIST and the American Dental Association (ADA). 

Sun was then recruited by the legend in dental materials research, Dr. Raphael Bowen, to join ADA’s Paffenbarger Research Center at NIST. Working alongside ADA’s emeritus researchers, including Dr. Bowen, Sun's research in dental composites and antibacterial biomaterials took shape. His role evolved further when the ADA and the Forsyth Institute merged, leading him to his current position as a professor, where he has secured multiple grants to advance dental material science. 

Sun's research focuses on developing innovative dental materials beyond traditional applications. One major project, funded by the National Institutes of Health, involves creating stimuli-responsive biomaterials for treating dental caries and periodontitis. His team developed a compound responsive to pH changes in the oral environment that selectively targets harmful bacteria while preserving beneficial ones. The targeted approach minimizes the need for broad-spectrum antibiotics, reducing side effects and preventing overuse.

With a $6.2 million grant from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, or NIDCR, Sun is also developing a next-generation smart material that is more durable and resilient than current alternatives. In collaboration with artificial intelligence experts, Sun is working on making dental composite with self-healing and antimicrobial properties, incorporating nanofillers that react to biological signals. 

Sun prioritizes finding materials that are easier to apply and affordable. "One of our main goals is to minimize technical barriers," Sun said. "We want materials that are easy to apply, affordable, and accessible, especially for underdeveloped areas where people don't always have access to specialized equipment."

Beyond dental materials, Sun envisions expanding his research using 3D printing, which has potential applications in both dental and broader biomedical fields. "I hope these technologies will eventually convert into products that truly benefit human health. That's the immediate goal, but I also want to keep pushing the boundaries, especially in areas like stimuli-responsive biomaterials and biomaterials for personalized treatment."

Reflecting on his career, Sun credits his mentors for shaping his path, especially Professor Russo at LSU, Dr. Lin-Gibson at NIST, and Dr. Bowen at ADA. Their support not only influenced his research direction but also instilled in him a commitment to mentorship, as he now trains students from Harvard and the University of Maryland, helping guide the next generation of scientists in dental and biomaterial sciences.

"The professors were always supportive. If you work hard, they'll help you reach your potential and do something great."

Through his journey, Dr. Sun remained driven by the goal of transforming research into practical solutions that can improve human health. His work incorporates innovative thinking and dedication to making a lasting impact in dental material science and beyond.