Program Director: Dr. Kathleen Boesze-Battaglia, contact
As one of the dual-degree options, the Master of Science in Oral Biology combined with the DMD (MSOB/DMD) program at Penn Dental Medicine is designed for predoctoral students interested in integrating research into their dental education. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, biomedical research, or evidence-based clinical practice.
Program Highlights
- Dual-Degree Structure: Students earn both a DMD and an MS in Oral Biology.
- Research-Focused: Emphasis on basic, translational, and clinical research.
- Mentorship: Strong student-mentor relationships guide research from concept to completion.
- Hybrid Curriculum: Combines in-person and online coursework with structured research.
- Scholarship: Students complete and defend a research thesis.
- Career Preparation: Ideal for those considering research focused academic careers.
Students present their findings at Penn Dental Medicine’s Research Day or ACCE Day and submit abstracts to national conferences such as AADOCR.
Research Focus
A central component of the MSOB program is the mentored research experience. Students select faculty mentors and engage in original research in areas such as:
- Oral microbiology and biofilms
- Host-pathogen interactions
- Oral-systemic disease relationships
- Biomaterials and regenerative therapies
Our current research advisors represent a wide range of expertise. We encourage students to explore faculty profiles, research interests, and recent publications to identify advisors whose work aligns with their academic and professional goals.
You can also explore the innovate, cross-disciplinary research happening at Penn Dental Medicine through our Research Publication.
Timeline & Structure
Students officially start the program during their second year (D2). The timeline includes:
- D1: Identify mentor/research proposal and submit an application
- D2: Begin MSOB core courses and research practicum
- D3: Continue research, electives, and thesis development
- D4: Complete thesis, oral thesis defense, and present at Research or ACCE Day