Research
The OHSU School of Dentistry is a research hub with more than 20 principal investigators and a skilled team, conducting diverse projects on dental disease, clinical practices, oral biology and biomedical research. Funded by Federal grants (NIH, NSF, NASA) and corporate sponsors, our scientists specialize in developing biomaterials for replacing oral tissues, cell and developmental biology, oral microbiology and immunology. As one of the leading dental health care research institutions, we contribute to improving the lives of patients by investigating disease causes and supporting evidence-based dental treatments. For inquiries about innovative research and opportunities, contact the principal investigators or the Office of Research Affairs at the School of Dentistry.
Explore innovative dentistry
“We welcome you to explore the research facilities at the OHSU School of Dentistry. Our lab is an interdisciplinary team of clinical investigators, public health experts and laboratory scientists committed to advancing dental health care. We conduct multidisciplinary research and help young investigators and trainees flourish in their research careers. Contact us to learn about our innovative work and leading-edge lab facilities.
Support for Research Excellence
- Groundbreaking research into dental health care.
- Outstanding faculty research for continuing and new investigators.
- Summer Research Internship program for high school and undergraduate students.
- Faculty cross-disciplinary research initiatives and centers.
- Research space infrastructure and renovation.
- Proposal and award management services for faculty and students (pre- and post-award administration).
- Dean's seminar and other guest lecture series.
- Annual school-wide Research Day.
- PORT (Portland Oral Health Research Training) program for pre-doctoral, post-doctoral, and dual degree trainees.
Diverse Research Focus Areas
Our research projects span:
- Craniofacial development and regenerative biology
- Microbiome science and oral-systemic health
- Digital imaging, AI, and informatics
- Health equity, aging, and chronic disease prevention
- Community-based and translational research
Engage with us
Dean's Research Seminars and other guest lectures
OHSU School of Dentistry hosts monthly research lectures that share new findings with students, faculty, staff, and the community. The Dean’s Research Seminars feature distinguished oral health researchers and often offer continuing education credits. Quarterly Faculty Research Seminars highlight current work by OHSU faculty, and an annual “Meet the Mentor” event introduces students to research opportunities across the school. Contact SODResearch@ohsu.edu for more information.
Bacteriology Research Group
The School of Dentistry hosts a monthly Bacteriology Research Group featuring discussions and presentations by faculty and staff in this field across the OHSU campus and beyond. Most sessions are held on the 3rd Friday of the month at 1 p.m. Contact Stephanie Momeni for more information.
Research training
Driving Innovation Across the Lifespan
The OHSU School of Dentistry (SoD) offers a comprehensive research training infrastructure that supports learners across all stages of their academic and professional development. From high school students to postdoctoral scholars and early-career faculty, our programs provide structured, mentored pathways into dental, oral, and craniofacial research.
Predoctoral and Postdoctoral Research
The Portland Oral Health Research Training (PORT) Program began in July 2021 after the OHSU School of Dentistry received a $3.8 million, five-year training grant from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR). Led by Dr. Hui Wu, the program supports research focused on how microbes interact with the body, biomaterials and tissue engineering, and research on TMJ and pain. The program trains predoctoral students, postdoctoral scholars, and internationally trained dentists who work with research mentors at OHSU, Oregon State University, and the University of Oregon. A new T32 training grant has also been submitted to expand research opportunities.
OHSU Dental Student Research
The School of Dentistry Student Research Group (SRG) is a student-led group that helps dental students build research skills and grow professionally. In today’s changing dental field, it is important to stay up to date with new scientific discoveries to give the best patient care. Our group brings together dental students who understand the value of research in improving dentistry. Led by a student executive board, SRG gives students a way to take part in research and develop useful skills.
Summer Research Internship
Our internship program offers paid research opportunities for students at different education levels. Each intern works with an experienced researcher. Interns take part in activities that help prepare them for a future in science. The summer program lasts at least eight weeks, and interns focus on research projects. At the end of the program, interns present their research findings. This annual event celebrates achievements and allows interns to learn from each other’s presentations.
Mentorship-Centered Culture
Mentorship is the foundation of our research training model. Each trainee is paired with experienced faculty mentors who support their development in research design, scientific writing, and career planning. Just as important, trainees are encouraged to serve as mentors themselves—supporting junior trainees and fostering a collaborative, inclusive research environment.
Our faculty mentors include recipients of K01, K08, and K99/R00 career development awards, as well as R01-funded investigators—offering strong, evidence-based guidance throughout the research career trajectory.
