Training opportunities
The goal is to train well-qualified candidates in scientific methodology and theory to prepare them to be leading oral health research faculty in the nation’s dental schools and oral health research institutions.
Trainees may enroll in one of three tracks:
- The PhD degree track provides state-of-the-art research training in oral biology or in another related discipline. Students who matriculate in the PhD program may do so at the postbaccalaureate or post-DDS levels. The PhD/Clinical Residency track allows trainees holding the DDS degree to combine PhD training with certificate-level training in one of five clinical dental specialties, including endodontics, oral pathology, orthodontics, periodontology, or prosthodontics.
- The combined DDS/PhD degree track (DSTP) provides an integrated dental and graduate research-training program for students to earn both the DDS and PhD degrees.
- The non-degree postdoctoral research track will provide in-depth experience with one or more mentors for trainees to engage in original research that builds upon their doctoral-level training and emphasizes cross-disciplinary training. This experience may be post-PhD or in some cases post-DDS, DMD or post-MD.
Major research areas:
- Microbiology/Pathogenesis of Oral Diseases
- Systemic Effects of Oral Diseases
- Immunology/Inflammation
- Bone and Connective Tissues/Tissue Engineering
- Salivary Biochemistry/Molecular Biology
- Epidemiology/Clinical Studies
- Bioinformatics
“I was sure I was going to be able to do anything I wanted because of the flexibility of the department. It is open to any research possible.”