Align Technology to expand international award programme in 2013

Align Technology has announced that additional funding will be provided to expand its Align Research Award Programme, which aims to encourage innovative studies in the field of dentistry.

The scheme is being extended for a fourth year in the US and a third year internationally, while a new scanner research award component will be added in recognition of the rapid increase in the utilisation of intraoral scanning technology in the dental profession.

It means the 2013 programme will include four one-year awards for clear aligner therapy research in the US, six one-year awards for clear aligner therapy research at international universities and five one-year awards in the new category, with total funding coming to $275,000 (169,500 pounds).

Included with each award is an iTero scanner provided on loan for one year, or a credit of $5,000 towards purchasing one of the devices.

Dr Eric Kuo, Align Technology's vice-president of clinical technology, said: "Study proposals for this new category are not limited to the field of orthodontics, but can include any aspect of dentistry where the scanner technology is indicated."

Earlier this month, the company announced a series of changes to its management structure, including the appointment of Greg Morrow as vice-president and general manager for its Clear Aligner brand.