The Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Pretoria is proud to spotlight Dr. Glynn Buchanan, an Adjunct Professor and discipline lead in the Division of Endodontics, who has recently earned a C2 rating from the National Research Foundation (NRF). This recognition places Dr. Buchanan among the top researchers in South Africa, validating his substantial contributions to dental science, particularly in endodontics.

Dr. Buchanan's journey in academia and research has been marked by dedication and a passion for enhancing dental education and clinical practice. After completing his dental training at the University of Pretoria in 2010 and spending six years in private practice, he returned to academia with a clear goal to advance the field of endodontics, which deals with diseases of the dental pulp and surrounding tissues—commonly performing procedures like root canals.

Reflecting on his recent achievement, Dr. Buchanan expressed his profound pride, “I am incredibly proud to have achieved a C2 rating from the NRF. It’s a gratifying acknowledgment of many years of hard work and a milestone in my career I share with my colleagues and friends who have supported me along the way.”

With this new status, Dr. Buchanan plans to leverage his NRF rating to foster and develop more research at the UP dental school, hoping to attract young academics into research to perpetuate evidence-based clinical practices. “An NRF rating not only helps secure funding for future projects but also boosts the research culture among new academics,” Dr. Buchanan explained.

The process of attaining a C2 rating involved rigorous peer evaluation of his qualifications,
experience, publications, and overall impact on his field. Dr. Buchanan detailed this process
as being both challenging and rewarding, culminating in a surprise success on his first
attempt at applying for an NRF rating in early 2023.

As one of the few dentists in South Africa with an NRF rating, Dr. Buchanan views this
achievement as both a professional accolade and a personal triumph. “It confirms my status
as a recognized scientist in our country and underscores the effort I’ve put into my research
over the years,” he noted.

Dr. Buchanan remains humble and grateful for the support he has received throughout his career, emphasising the importance of community and collaboration in achieving long-term success. “I owe a big thank you to everyone who has been there for me. As the old African proverb goes, ‘if you want to go fast go alone, but if you want to go far go together,’” he shared.

Dr. Buchanan’s story is not just one of individual success but a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines the best of academic and clinical research. His achievements inspire current and future students at the University of Pretoria’s Faculty of Health Sciences, proving that commitment and community can lead to significant scientific advancements.