Dr. David Murchison

Dr. David Murchison advises pre-dental students through the Health Professions Advising Center at UT Dallas and works with the Pre-Dental Student Association.

Dr. David Murchison, a senior lecturer in the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology at UT Dallas, has been appointed Civilian National Consultant in Restorative Dentistry and Dental Materials to the U.S. Air Force Surgeon General.

Murchison, a retired Air Force colonel with 30 years of service, joined the School of Natural Sciences and Mathematics in 2010. In addition to his teaching duties, Murchison advises pre-dental students through the Health Professions Advising Center, works with the Pre-Dental Student Association, and speaks to freshmen who are considering careers in dentistry. He also is a clinical professor at Baylor College of Dentistry.

Civilian national consultants to the Surgeon General of the Air Force serve as ambassadors to their specialty fields. Consultants advise the Air Force Medical and Dental Services on managing residencies and continuing education programs, and serve as clinical subject matter experts.

Murchison, who is a graduate of Baylor College of Dentistry, will provide advice on advancements in materials and techniques that might have an impact on the delivery of dental care. During his three-year appointment, he may also participate in Air Force sponsored symposia and seminars, contribute to the development of manpower standards, and assist in the development and coordination of Air Force-proposed research protocols.

“This is a fantastic achievement for Col. Murchison. He makes an amazing contribution to the education of our pre-dental students, and this appointment is a tremendous recognition of his achievements and commitment to this field.”

Dr. Stephen Spiro,
head of UT Dallas’ Department of Molecular and Cell Biology

“This is a fantastic achievement for Col. Murchison,” said Dr. Stephen Spiro, head of UT Dallas’ Department of Molecular and Cell Biology. “He makes an amazing contribution to the education of our pre-dental students, and this appointment is a tremendous recognition of his achievements and commitment to this field.”

Murchison completed his undergraduate training at the University of Arkansas and was commissioned as a Distinguished Graduate in the Air Force ROTC program there. During his military career, he was a faculty member, residency director, and ultimately dean of the Air Force Postgraduate Dental School in San Antonio. He was a two-time squadron commander and finished his active duty career serving as the director of Air Force Dental Operations.

Murchison is a member of the American Dental Association, a fellow of the International College of Dentists and a master in the Academy of General Dentistry. He also is a diplomate of the American Board of General Dentistry. He has authored or co-authored 100 scientific articles, abstracts, book chapters and clinical presentations in the fields of restorative dentistry and dental materials, and has given numerous presentations at national and international meetings.

“I am extremely honored that the surgeon general has named me to this position of responsibility, which will allow me to advise the dedicated men and women in the Air Force Dental Service on advances that can ensure the highest quality of care for America’s fighting force,” Murchison said. “It is the true pinnacle in my career as a dentist.

“I’m also excited to continue my professional involvement with the academic and clinical side of dentistry, teaching and advising the outstanding pre-dental and dental students I have the opportunity to work with.”