Student Research Resources
Student Research Resources
Research is at the heart of discovery at HSDM. Students collaborate with world-renowned faculty, investigate questions that improve oral and systemic health, and develop the skills to become future leaders in academic dentistry, clinical care, and research.
Research at HSDM
Research is a cornerstone of the Harvard School of Dental Medicine educational experience. Students work alongside internationally recognized faculty and investigators to explore questions in basic science, clinical and translational research, oral health policy, public health, global health, and dental education.
Throughout their academic journey, the Office of Research provides guidance, mentorship, and resources to help students successfully complete their scholarly work and contribute to advances in oral health.
Reseach guidebooks and resources
Find the latest research guidebooks, forms, and key resources on the HSDM Intranet. 🔐 HarvardKey authentication is required.
Research community and annual events
One of the strengths of HSDM's research program is the opportunity to engage with faculty and showcase scholarly work throughout the academic year.
Faculty Research Day
Held each fall, Faculty Research Day introduces students to the breadth of research taking place across HSDM, Harvard Medical School, and affiliated hospitals. Faculty members present their current research programs, providing students with an opportunity to explore potential areas of interest, learn about available projects, and begin building relationships with prospective research mentors.
For DMD students, attendance during the first two years is part of the research experience outlined by the Office of Research.
Student Research Day
Held in the spring, Student Research Day is the signature annual celebration of scholarship at HSDM. Graduating DMD, MMSc, and DMSc students present posters highlighting their original research to faculty, classmates, alumni, and invited guests. The event showcases discoveries across the biomedical, clinical, translational, public health, and educational sciences while recognizing outstanding student achievement.
For many students, Student Research Day represents the culmination of years of scholarly work and demonstrates HSDM's commitment to integrating research into dental education. The guidebook identifies poster presentation and abstract submission as key milestones for graduating students.
Student Research Day highlights
Revisit last spring's Student Research Day, where students presented original research spanning clinical care, artificial intelligence, oral health, and public health.
Student Research Day highlights innovation and discovery at HSDM
Graduating students presented research spanning artificial intelligence, clinical care, and global health
Research opportunities
Students can pursue research in a wide range of disciplines while working closely with faculty mentors. Whether your interests are laboratory science, clinical investigation, public health, or oral health policy, HSDM offers multiple pathways to tailor your scholarly experience.
Research tracks
Students may pursue scholarly work in areas including:
- Basic science
- Clinical and translational research
- Public health
- Global health
- Oral health policy
- Dental education
Specialized opportunities
- Public Health Track
- H-CREDENT
- Aging and Geriatric Oral Health Track
- Honors in Research
Expand your research experience
For students interested in combining dental education with advanced study, HSDM offers several dual degree pathways that integrate research, public health, business, bioethics, and education. These programs prepare graduates to become leaders in clinical practice, academia, research, and health policy.
Contact us
Questions about getting involved?
The Office of Research helps students identify mentors, navigate compliance requirements, prepare abstracts, and connect with research opportunities throughout their academic journey.