Student Research
Research & Innovation: Discovery Begins Here
Students lead cutting-edge research projects with guidance from our faculty. Completing a research project is a requirement for third-year dental students and dental hygiene students. Postgraduate residents also complete research projects as part of their residency programs or to fulfill the requirements for their master's degrees.
Through these projects, students and residents gain insight into how they can help shape the future of oral health. Research topics range from clinical and basic sciences to educational research.
Students interested in technology often explore:
- New 3D-printed models and materials.
- Optimization of digital denture and implant workflows.
- Imaging, scanning and modeling science.
- Collaborative research across departments.
College Student Research Day
Each February, students present the results of their research projects at the annual Research Day event.
Presenting at National Meetings
Students have opportunities to present their research findings at national meetings, including American Association for Dental, Oral and Craniofacial Research, International Association for Dental Research and Hinman Student Research Symposium.
Finding a Faculty Member
Dental students are introduced to student research projects in the ORBI 620 Research and Ethics course, held during the fall semester of the D2 year. They are expected to develop a research hypothesis or PICO question to guide their research efforts. As part of this process, students will identify and recruit a faculty mentor.
Many faculty members in the College of Dentistry are engaged in scholarly activities.