Gifts in Action - Dr. Thomas Diekwisch

MEET THOMAS DIEKWISCH

A world-class researcher, Dr. Thomas Diekwisch was recruited as the director of the Brodie Laboratory for Craniofacial Genetics of the Allan G. Brodie Institute for Orthodontics in the College’s Department of Orthodontics, at UIC. Diekwisch is an expert concerning gene function in tooth development and enamel crystal growth, and brought with him grants totaling more than $2.3 million in those subjects.

THE BRODIE LABORATORY

Gifts from Donald and Barbara Brodie funded the creation of an orthodontics research laboratory on the fourth floor of the University of Illinois at Chicago College of Dentistry, and also provided an endowment for salaries of researchers in the Brodie Institute. Donald Brodie is the son of the late Dr. Allan G. Brodie Sr., an internationally known clinician, teacher, administrator and researcher who served as orthodontics department head at the College of Dentistry from 1929 to 1966 and as dean of the College from 1943 to 1956.

WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING

Diekwisch’s excitement about the new research possibilities presented by the Brodie Laboratory was apparent as he commented about its potential: “The Brodie gift is a fantastic resource. It allows us to add qualities to the table that can’t be bought from National Institute of Health funds, but that are still necessary to create a new intellectual environment on the map. In the case of the UIC Brodie Laboratory for Craniofacial Genetics this includes the design and building of a new laboratory home, the purchase of unique equipment, and the invitation of outstanding speakers and guests. The Brodie gift also provided a foundation for my recruitment as well as the recruitment of other faculty members. Furthermore, the Brodie gift has provided the financial resources for two unique themes at the UIC College of Dentistry; one, to enhance the collaboration between basic and clinical sciences, and two, to facilitate unique projects related to the Art and Science interface.”