Restorative Science/Biomaterials Boasts Record Number of Research Residents
The Department of Restorative Sciences/Biomaterials welcomed the largest group of research residents in the history of the program this year. The group includes 22 research residents, versus 12 to 16 per year, in recent years. Fifteen residents are continuing their DScD programs (as second or third-year research residents) and the other seven are residents who have completed their experiments and are writing their theses. These 22 residents are involved in research as part of their advanced degree programs which encompass a wide variety of disciplines including: prosthodontics, advanced operative dentistry, endodontics, pediatric dentistry, and orthodontics & dentofacial orthopedics.
Associate Professor and Director of Biomaterials Dr. Russell Giordano talked about the increase saying, “A research degree is increasingly important as dentistry incorporates ‘high–tech’ into diagnosis and treatment of craniofacial and systemic disease. The Department of Restorative Science/Biomaterials has an international reputation for quality research on timely issues important to clinical dentistry. Many of our students are international and an advanced degree such as an MS or DScD helps them implement new programs when they return to their home country. They are not only experts in a particular clinical field but also have a greater analytical ability and understanding of new materials and techniques that shape the future of dentistry.”
Professor & Chair of Restorative Sciences/Biomaterials Dr. Dan Nathanson also cited several reasons for the increase in the number of advanced degree candidates, including: the recent increase in the number of candidates for specialty education; an advanced degree now being a requirement for holding a teaching position at many dental schools in the world; many dental specialty programs, GSDM included, encouraging all residents to obtain an advanced degree; and the departmental reputation of providing research education and mentoring for advanced degrees attracting candidates from around the world.
“I’m very pleased that our Biomaterials Division faculty, Drs. Giordano, Chou, and Pober, are able to carry this ‘heavy’ load while maintaining the highest standard of translational research conducted by residents,” said Dr. Nathanson. “It is one more aspect of our Dental School that distinguishes us in the U.S. and abroad. “
Dr. Giordano added, “Many of our graduates have become deans, department chairs, and directors at various dental schools and hospital-based clinics due, at least in part, to the expertise gained during the research portion of their program. We look forward to working with our new residents as they progress toward becoming colleagues in the scientific community.”