Clinical Associate Professor Hopcraft's academic career began in 2002 when he became lecturer in Community and Preventive Dentistry at The University of Melbourne. He completed his PhD investigating the oral health of people living in nursing homes and innovative models of care, and has published widely on various areas of dental public health.
He was President of the Australian Dental Association (Victorian Branch) in 2010/11, served on the Federal Council in 2012-14 and is currently the Chief Executive Officer of the Australian Dental Association (Victorian Branch). Past work experience includes time as the Director of Assessments and Examinations at the Australian Dental Council, Oral Health Advisor at Dental Health Services Victoria and Professional & Scientific Relations Consultant for Oral-B. He co-founded SugarFree Smiles in 2015 to advocate for policies to improve oral health in Australia.