Program Director: Dr. Geelsu Hwang, contact
The Master of Science in Oral Biology at Penn Dental Medicine is a two-year, research-intensive graduate program that combines comprehensive didactic instruction, interactive seminars, and mentored research leading to the completion of a master’s thesis. The program is designed to prepare students for careers in academia, biomedical research, evidence-based clinical practice, and beyond.
Through this rigorous program, students gain a deep understanding of the biological foundations of oral health and disease, as well as the critical connections between oral and systemic health. The program emphasizes the development of scientific reasoning, critical thinking, and effective communication skills.
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 considering research focused academic careers or careers in health sciences.
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.