DRI productivity and participation at the SA IADR (1967-2004)

This analysis describes the scientific research productivity and participation of the Dental Research Institute (DRI) in the South African Division of the International Association for Dental Research (1967-2004). A total of 438 presentations were delivered by the 257 individuals conducting research under the auspices of the DRI. Presenters were mainly DRI staff (45%); from the associated Dental School 26% and private practitioners 22%. Most the presentations were produced by a minority of researchers. Postgraduates had 150 presentations linked to research for their higher degrees. While the numbers of DRI presentations has declined with time, staff presentation productivity has increased. There has been a slight change in abstract descriptors with a recent falling away of animal studies. Sixty eight percent of oral presentations were ultimately published with between 1 to 4 oral presentations contributing towards a journal publication. Most of the current presenters have reached retirement age and their SA IADR activity will cease.