Dr. Kern graduated in 1985 with a degree in Dentistry from the Albert-Ludwigs University in Freiburg, Germany. He began his academic journey as Assistant Professor in the Department of Prosthodontics at Freiburg, serving from 1985–1991 and again from 1994–1997. Between 1992 and 1993, he was a Visiting Research Associate Professor at the University of Maryland at Baltimore.
Since 1997, Dr. Kern served as Professor and Chairman of the Department of Prosthodontics, Propaedeutics and Dental Materials at the Christian-Albrechts University in Kiel, Germany. His career was marked by visionary leadership, pioneering research, and an unwavering commitment to clinical excellence.
Among his many accolades, Dr. Kern received the Schweitzer Research Award from the Greater New York Academy of Prosthodontics (GNYAP) in 2011. From 2012 to 2016, he served as President of the German Society for Prosthetic Dentistry and Biomaterials (DGPro), and in March 2020, he was honored with the IADR Distinguished Scientist Award for his groundbreaking work in prosthodontics and implant research.
A prolific author, Dr. Kern published over 500 scientific articles and served on the editorial boards of more than ten leading journals. His work shaped the benefits of adhesion to ceramics for various treatment modalities, and his mentorship inspired countless colleagues and students across the globe.
Dr. Kern’s legacy will live on through his contributions to science, his dedication to patient care, and his unwavering support of academic and clinical advancement. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege to work with him.
Dr. Kern was an active member of the IAAD since it was founded. During the 6th Biennial Meeting of IAAD on Saturday12, 2025, Prof. Markus Blatz delivered a lecture in Memoriam of Dr. Kern, recognizing his work on bonded Zircona.
