Advanced General Dentistry in Oral Research

https://dentistry.utah.edu/education

Research in Oral Health and Foundational Sciences is designed for students who are considering dental research as a full-time career or as an adjunct to clinical practice. The Oral Research Pathway is designed to provide the student with the essential steps in the development of a research project. The student will be guided through selection of a research mentor, draft of research proposal, IRB submission and approval process, active research, and completion of the research project with presentation and/or publication. This course will serve to implement research activities at the University of Utah School of Dentistry with the main goal of providing research experience to dental students by establishing both a multi-faculty network and a coordinated set of procedures and expectations, as detailed below. The course consists of approximately one year of work in a research lab as well as attendance to lectures (research ethics, critical thinking, and abstract/poster guidelines). After the research project is completed, the student will be required to present their work at the University of Utah Student Research Day, at national scientific conference or in another appropriate venue, by approval of the faculty advisor and course director.

Admissions requirements and selection method:

1. Matriculation as a D2 student at the UUSOD

2. In academic good standing (GPA: >3.0)

3. Approval of Group Practice Leader (GPL)

4. Submission of the standardized application with personal statement and relevant reflection paper from Pathways Engagement

5. Selection by the Pathways Course Director

6. Pathway-specific:

   1. Students must have a passion for periodontics and dental implant surgery.

   2. Three separate observations of a periodontist, for 2 hours minimum in their practice settings, is strongly urged prior to the start of the D3 year.

   3. Grades in Perio Classes Considered (but not critical). Continuation in the program is contingent on the following:

      1. Maintaining a GPA of >3.0

      2. Meeting the benchmarks for completing clinical competency assessments

      3. Maintaining professionalism standards for the UUSOD

      4. Participating fully in all aspects of academic and clinical activities

      5. Successfully completing all requirements established by the PCD