Program Directors: Dr. Geelsu Hwang, contact and Dr. Jonathan Korostoff, contact
Penn Dental Medicine offers a unique opportunity for postgraduate specialty residents to pursue a Master of Science in Oral Biology (MSOB) alongside their clinical training. This dual-pathway program is designed for residents who wish to deepen their understanding of oral biology, engage in structured research, and enhance their academic and professional credentials.
Through a combination of advanced coursework, interactive seminars, and mentored research, students develop the skills necessary to contribute meaningfully to the scientific and clinical advancement of dentistry.
Program Highlights
- 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: Culminates in a written thesis and oral defense presented to the academic community.
- Career Preparation: Ideal for those pursuing advanced education and research focused academic careers.
Students present their findings at Penn Dental Medicine’s Research 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.