The IOF Science Committee assumes a crucial role in overseeing the IOF Research Grants Program. Their wealth of expertise and knowledge in the field of orthodontics empowers them to provide valuable suggestions and insights, ensuring the Research Grants Program is structured to support groundbreaking research initiatives.

Throughout the grant application process, the committee meticulously reviews each eligible submission, evaluating the research proposals based on their scientific merit, potential impact, and alignment with the program's objectives.

expert Dr. Zhihe Zhao image.
Dr. Zhihe Zhao
Professor, Chief Physician, PhD Supervisor
Co-chair of IOF Founding Committee
President of Professor Committee,
West China School and Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, China
Dr. Zhihe Zhao is the former President of Chinese Orthodontic Society of Chinese Stomatological Association.

He is recognized as a young and middle-aged experts who have made outstanding contributions by the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China. He also holds the title of Academic and Technical Leader of Sichuan Province, Chief Health Expert of Sichuan Province. Dr. Zhao is a Fellow of the International College of Dentists (ICD). He is the deputy Editor-in-Chief of “Chinese Journal of Orthodontics”, Editor-in-chief of the National five-year Undergraduate Textbook “Orthodontics”, in charge of “National First-Class Undergraduate Online Course” - “Orthodontics”, and the first speaker of “Orthodontics” of “China MOOC Alliance Oral Planning Course”.

The Founding Committee defines the strategy of IOF. According to the strategy, the committee sets the short-term and long-term objectives for developing different programs and initiatives.

Furthermore, the committee is responsible for allocating funds to the Science Committee and providing senior counsel on medical affairs. Oversight is provided by an independent board, which is also responsible for electing the IOF chairperson and executive directors.

expert Dr. Zhihe Zhao image.
Dr. Zhihe Zhao
Professor, Chief Physician, PhD Supervisor
Co-chair of IOF Founding Committee
President of Professor Committee,
West China School and Hospital of Stomatology, Sichuan University, China
Dr. Zhihe Zhao is the former President of Chinese Orthodontic Society of Chinese Stomatological Association.

He is recognized as a young and middle-aged experts who have made outstanding contributions by the National Health Commission of the People’s Republic of China. He also holds the title of Academic and Technical Leader of Sichuan Province, Chief Health Expert of Sichuan Province. Dr. Zhao is a Fellow of the International College of Dentists (ICD). He is the deputy Editor-in-Chief of “Chinese Journal of Orthodontics”, Editor-in-chief of the National five-year Undergraduate Textbook “Orthodontics”, in charge of “National First-Class Undergraduate Online Course” - “Orthodontics”, and the first speaker of “Orthodontics” of “China MOOC Alliance Oral Planning Course”.

The International Orthodontics Foundation (OF) is a not-for-profitorganization co-founded by CareCapital Group and more than 10 leading expertsfrom around the world. As a platform for international collaborative innovation, IOFis dedicated to advancing orthodontic care globally by exploring and promotinginnovative treatment ideas and technologies.
IOF Organization
IOF Board

Define IOF’s overarching strategy and establish key objectives for short to medium term.

Allocate financial resources efficiently to align with IOF’s strategic vision.

Elect the Chairperson, committee members, and the IOF Executive Board members.

IOF Executive Board

Oversee day-to-day operations, providing strategic advice to the Foundation Board.

Ensure open communication with all committees, maintaining dialogue for informed decision-making.

Manage the Operation Office, review regular IOF reports, and enforce governance that aligns with the Foundation's goals.

IOF Science Committee

The IOF Science Committee is integral to advancing the foundation's mission of fostering research and innovation within the field of orthodontics. The committee's specific

responsibilities include:

Overseeing the IOF grants process from announcement to award, ensuring a transparent, equitable, and merit-based system.

Evaluating all applications for IOF Grants and Scholarships with rigor and upholding the highest standards of academic excellence.

Advising on the strategic direction for research initiatives, identifying emerging trends, and setting priorities that align with IOF's long-term objectives.

Facilitating collaborations and partnerships with academic institutions, industry, and other stakeholders to advance orthodontic research.