Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Oral Health Research

Virginia Commonwealth University

The Ph.D. in Oral Health Research prepares students for research-oriented careers as independent scientists in academia, government and industry. The curriculum is specifically designed to provide a strong foundation in biochemistry, molecular biology and oral biology. Students will select a research project from one of two main areas of focus: Cancer and developmental biology of the head and neck Infection and immunology in diseases of the head and neck The program emphasizes independent research culminating in the conduct of an original research project under the supervision of a faculty adviser. Participating faculty are associated with programs and departments within the Philips Institute for Oral Health Research within the School of Dentistry, the School of Medicine and the VCU Massey Cancer Center. Ph.D. students are expected to enroll as full-time graduate students. During the first year, students pursue research rotations, take formal course work and become familiar with current research topics through seminars, discussion groups and lectures by distinguished scientists. By the end of the first year, students choose a faculty adviser and begin dissertation research. Following completion of the research project and defense of the doctoral dissertation, graduates will have acquired the necessary methods, techniques and critical-thinking skills to become the next generation of scientific leaders.

School of Dentistry