This program is built to support the next generation of scientists through rigorous research training, professional development, and interdisciplinary collaboration.
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About the Program
The T90/R90 Comprehensive Training Program in Oral Biology builds on more than 30 years of NIH-funded training experience at the University of Florida College of Dentistry. The program is designed to prepare both basic and clinical scientists to address key oral health research priorities identified by the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) and other NIH institutes.
Our training model brings together a core group of UFCD faculty who work closely across disciplines and collaborate with investigators from multiple UF colleges and international partners. This network is further strengthened by mentors from medicine, pharmacy, engineering, veterinary medicine, and other UF Health colleges, creating broad opportunities in biomedical research directly connected to oral health and disease.
As part of an R1, top-five public university, our program combines focused, high-quality mentorship with the flexibility to pursue innovative and interdisciplinary science. This environment supports the growth of dentists, and basic researchers as they build the skills and experience needed to become leaders in dental, oral, and craniofacial research.
Areas of Investigation
The scientific areas encompassed in the Comprehensive Training Program in Oral Biology include, but are not limited to:
- Oral Infectious Diseases
- Mechanistic Connections Between Oral and Systemic Health
- Virology
- Human Microbiome
- Salivary Gland Biology
- Autoimmunity
- Bone Biology
- Head and Neck Cancers
- Bioinformatics/Artificial Intelligence
- Biomedical Engineering
- Stem Cell Biology
Awards and Highlights
Our program is only one out of fifteen training programs funded by NIDCR
The UF College of Dentistry’s Comprehensive Training Program in Oral Biology was awarded an ADEA William J. Gies Awards for Vision, Innovation and Achievement in 2018. The Gies Awards honor individuals and organizations that exemplify the highest standards in oral health and dental education, research and leadership.
Training Pathways
The program supports four training tracks, designed to fit each trainee’s background and goals.
| Track | Who It’s For | # Trainees Supported | Degree/Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Predoctoral- PhD | Biomedical Sciences PhD students | 3 | PhD |
| Predoctoral- DMD/PhD | DMD students pursuing research | 4 | DMD + PhD |
| Postdoctoral- PhD | PhD-trained researchers | 2 | Non-degree seeking |
| Postdoctoral- DMD/DDS (R90) | Non-citizen/non-permanent resident dentists | 1 | Non-degree seeking |
Stipend, Benefits & Support
All trainees receive financial and professional support consistent with NIH policy.
Predoctoral trainees:
- PhD candidates – Biomedical Sciences (BMS) stipend level
- DMD (dental phase) – NIH predoctoral stipend level
- DMD (PhD phase) – Biomedical Science (BMS) stipend level
- Tuition & fees covered; Training-Related Expenses (TRE) supports health insurance, research supplies, and professional development.
Postdoctoral trainees:
- NIH postdoctoral stipend levels (adjusted by experience)
- TRE supports insurance, research supplies, and development, tuition not applicable.
Current stipend levels can be found on the NIH NRSA Stipend Tables.
Core Requirements
All trainees are expected to:
- Maintain a GPA ≥ 3.0 (predocs only).
- Participate in:
- GMS 6193: Research Conference in Oral Biology (each semester)
- GMS 7877: Responsible Conduct of Biomedical Research (spring)
- Year 2: DEN6680 and DEN6681 (Craniofacial Biology courses)
- Maintain an Individual Development Plan (IDP) and review annually with mentor.
- Submit an annual progress report to Dr. Lemos (due January 1).
- Year 2: Submit an individual fellowship application (F30/F31/F32, or similar)
For more information about our leadership, mentors, and trainees, visit: