What's crackin y'all!
I'm a DDS/PhD student at University of Washington. We're looking for new recruits, and I'm looking to meet other kids interested in academic dentistry, whether you're doing a PhD or not.
My research pursues application of computational biology / bioinformatics, specifically protein interaction prediction, to the understanding of bone dynamics. The goal is to create a working model/simulation of bone, in effort to create new treatments to induce regeneration of the periodontium.
Kung Fizzil, although I'm relatively new at this as well, I've spoken at length with a few of the OG DDS/PhD students, who have now completed their programs. I also had to apply for my own grant (F30) to support my program, so I may be able to field some questions, etc.
Initially, I would recommend finding a PI (professor to do research with) who is very supportive, and even more flexible. Unless your program follows the MD/PhD model (2 years dental school, 4 years PhD, 2 years dental school) which mine does not, you will really need someone that will let your progress wax and wane for the first few years. You will probably have to be flexible on the project you choose within the lab, as things may develop while you take time away from research for dental school classes (again, my situation).
Try to find someone in your school who is doing the DDS/PhD or combined specialty/PhD or masters program. They will give you insight into the specific difficulties of balancing clinical work and research at your school, and who in particular to appease or avoid. Balance of time has already become an issue for me; rely heavily on your program director, department chair, and deans for advice; you will need it!
Also, attend as many research seminars as possible to become familiar with the work being done at your school and affiliated institutions. That is how I found my PI. I dont think anyone will make you require you to work with someone specifically in the dental school, but if you do pursue someone outside the school (i.e. Dept of Immunology), find a dental school prof (researcher) to serve as your point-person for application/relevance of your research to dentistry. They can serve as your advocate in many ways; mine has already done so.
Journal clubs might be a good way of interacting with more experienced graduate students within or outside of your department. We recently set up one in our school, which has connected me to the straight PhD students (most of whom are already dentists as well).
Seek, think, and prosper!
Anyone, feel free to email me at
[email protected], especially if I don't reply to further posts.
