Greek Dentist Dimitra Karagiaouri Makes Forbes 30 Under 30

by · Greek City Times

A 29-year-old Greek dentist and researcher has earned a place on Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list, recognised for her work exploring ways to regenerate damaged tooth tissue rather than replace it with artificial materials.

Dimitra Karagiaouri, based in Thessaloniki, is researching how cells can be directed to repair the nerve tissue inside teeth, potentially offering new approaches to dental treatment and helping preserve natural teeth.

Her work focuses on regenerating damaged tissue so that a tooth can remain alive, rather than relying on conventional artificial materials.

“Instead of putting in materials, we can regenerate and repair this tissue, so that we can have a living tooth again,” she explained.

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The research is being conducted in Thessaloniki, highlighting the scientific work taking place in Greece and the opportunities available to young researchers working in local laboratories.

Karagiaouri said public recognition often reveals only the final achievement, rather than the effort required to reach it.

“We see the tip of the iceberg, which is success. No one can see the sacrifices you’ve made from behind,” she said.

Can Greek research become a business opportunity?

Her recognition has also brought attention to a broader question facing Greece’s scientific community: whether the country’s research and innovation can attract the investment needed to develop into successful businesses and create jobs.

Scientific discoveries require funding, infrastructure and investors willing to support their development.

George Koliakos, emeritus professor of biochemistry at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki and chief executive of a biotechnology company, said scientific knowledge could be commercialised internationally.

“Scientific knowledge can be utilised anywhere. Where the game of biotechnology is played is in patents,” he said.

Biochemist Argyro Niti also stressed that Greece has talented researchers but needs substantially greater financial support to compete in biotechnology and scientific innovation.

“We definitely have the brains. We lack funding, which is the A and Z,” she said, pointing to the significant budgets required to turn research into practical applications.

Recognition brings new expectations

For Karagiaouri, inclusion on the Forbes list is an important milestone, but not the end of her work.

She sees the recognition as motivation to continue developing the research she has already begun and to pursue its potential applications.

“The people on the list, where will they be in 10 years? It essentially gives you the motivation to continue and work harder on the project you have already started,” she said.

Her inclusion highlights the contribution of young Greek scientists working to advance research and innovation, while raising questions about how Greece can retain and support the talent needed to turn scientific discoveries into commercial and medical breakthroughs.

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