Rate My Professor Malcolm Dacker

Dr. Malcolm Dacker is a Senior Professional Practice Fellow and the clinical lead in undergraduate oral surgery at the University of Otago's Faculty of Dentistry, specifically within the Department of Oral Diagnostic and Surgical Sciences. His role involves guiding and supervising dental students in clinical oral surgery practices, ensuring high standards in practical training and patient care. Dr. Dacker holds the qualifications of BDS (credit) and DipDT, obtained from the University of Otago, reflecting his strong foundation in dental surgery and dental therapy. He maintains affiliations with Kai Tahu, Kati Mamoe, Waitaha, and Ngati Raukawa iwi, which underscores his cultural connections relevant to his professional context in New Zealand dentistry. As part of the Oral Surgery team, he works alongside colleagues such as Associate Professor Harsha De Silva, contributing to the academic and clinical activities of the section focused on oral and maxillofacial surgery.

Dr. Dacker's contributions extend to key operational and emergency responses at the university. In 2020, during the COVID-19 lockdown, he led a team of dentists and assistants providing essential emergency dental care from secured facilities at the Faculty of Dentistry in Dunedin, demonstrating commitment to public health under challenging conditions. He has been repeatedly acknowledged in University of Otago postgraduate theses for his involvement in the Māori Dental Health clinic, collaborating with Professor John Broughton to support Māori oral health initiatives. His presence is noted in various university documents, including staff directories, health sciences expertise databases, and the 2024 Dental Council of New Zealand accreditation visit team report for the BDS programme. Contactable via phone at +64 3 479 3947 or direct dial +64 3 556 6038, Dr. Dacker facilitates academic and clinical communications effectively. Earlier in his career, he was a recipient of the Hauora Māori Scholarship while pursuing his BDS degree, highlighting his longstanding dedication to dental education and practice at Otago.