Dental research advances oral healthcare. It's how we improve patient care and refine treatment options. It’s through research we uncover new insights into oral diseases and develop better diagnostic tools.
For dental students, engaging in research during training cultivates critical thinking skills and evidence-based mindsets that are essential for modern dentistry. When you participate in research, you learn to critically evaluate scientific literature, understand study design methodologies, and apply research findings to clinical practice. This experience prepares you to become lifelong learners who can adapt to the rapidly evolving field of dentistry. Early exposure to research helps you develop problem-solving abilities, enhances your understanding of disease processes at a molecular level, and can help shape your career and open doors to academic pursuits, specialized training, or leadership roles.
Summer Research Program
Our Summer Research Program is an opportunity for students finishing their first year of dental school to dive deep into scientific discovery and work alongside expert faculty mentors on basic science investigations. Students have worked on research topics ranging from Lyme Disease diagnostic tests to preventing and reversing obesity via GPR75 blockade.
During this four-week program, you work closely with a dedicated research mentor on a variety of ongoing or emerging research projects. Participants receive a competitive stipend and present their findings to the entire school community in the fall.
You’ll gain first-hand experience and a better understanding of best practices in a lab, the importance of collaboration, and how research advancements impact the clinical setting and drug development. If you’re interested in participating, contact Margarita Diaz, margarita.diaz@touro.edu.
Student Research Fellowship Grant Program
Touro encourages student-initiated research. The Student Research Fellowship Grant Program runs each summer across Touro University and is designed to foster student expertise in research design and execution under faculty mentorship. The research period normally runs from July to October, with a final report required 30 days after the project concludes and includes a stipend. Application requirements include a detailed project plan, bios, budget, and letters of recommendation from both a faculty mentor and the school's dean.
Research Day
Each year Touro College of Dental Medicine hosts a research day to showcase student and faculty research. The event brings together students, faculty, and researchers to present original studies, clinical investigations, and interdisciplinary projects that advance oral health and dental education. Through poster presentations and oral sessions, participants engage in thoughtful dialogue, gain valuable research experience, and contribute to a growing body of work that reflects Touro’s dedication to academic excellence, inquiry, and lifelong learning.
Research News Stories
Innovation, Evidence, and Impact: TCDM Research Day 2025 Shines Spotlight on Future Dental Leaders
From Orofacial Pain to Public Health Advocacy, Students and Faculty at Touro College of Dental Medicine Push the Boundaries of Evidence-Based Dentistry and Expand Research into Underserved Communities
Award-Winning Mentorship in Touro’s College of Dental Medicine Leads to Research Excellence
Dr. Jaffer A. Shariff’s Work with Students Recognized by the American Association for Dental, Oral, and Craniofacial Research (AADOCR)
Touro College of Dental Medicine Holds Second-Ever Research Day
Students and Faculty Present Findings and Learn Proper Applications of Opioids in Pain Control
TCDM Student Presents Research at AADOCR/ CADR Conference
Touro College of Dental Medicine D3 Rachel Sebastian Presents on “Early Implant Failure” as Part of the Student Competition for Advancing Dental Research and Its Application (SCADA)
Research Society and Journal
The Touro College of Dental Medicine Research Society is home to students interested in dental research. Each year the society publishes a journal highlighting the research taking place at Touro College of Dental Medicine and exploring innovations in the broader dental community.
Research Leadership
Jaffer A. Shariff, D.D.S, M.P.H, D.P.H, M.S.
