Research

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UNMC College of Dentistry Research Focus Areas

Research is an integral part of the College of Dentistry's mission. Major research focus areas include biomaterials and bioregulation.

The college has experienced substantial growth in research since the opening of the Cruzan Center for Dental Research in 1998, made possible due to the generosity of Dr. and Mrs. Winston V. Cruzan. Dr. Cruzan was a 1938 graduate of the College of Dentistry. The center was established to conduct well-designed clinical trials and clinical studies, and receives funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), private foundations and industry. The clinical research faculty and staff perform a broad spectrum of well-executed studies in dental, oral and craniofacial research.

Student Research Program

The college has an exceptional student research program. Students present the results of their research projects at the college's annual student research day.

Publications

Over the last five years, College of Dentistry faculty and staff members have authored 134 scientific publications, 15 textbook chapters and 1 textbook.

Extramural Research Support

$2,319,511 in extramural research support received in fiscal year 2020-21. The areas of research supported by this funding included: studies on cell signaling in skin biology, palatal fusion, oral and other cancers; dental materials research; digital dentistry; DNA damage and repair in cancer biology; treatment of periodontal disease; teledentistry in rural health; and oral health training and service.

Received sustained support from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) averaging over $1.2 million per year for the past 10 years, despite having the 10th smallest dental student class size.

Grants

71 grants awarded to College of Dentistry faculty and staff members over the last 5 years.

Student Research

100% of dental and dental hygiene students conduct research in their programs and 25% go on to present at national conferences and meetings.