Program Overview

Introduction to the Dental-Biomedical Engineering Scholars Training (D-BEST) Program

The D-BEST Program is a unique, integrated academic training program that provides an interdisciplinary educational experience, preparing students to become innovative leaders with core expertise rooted in both engineering and dental sciences. This 8-year program trains students to become dental-biomedical engineering translational scientists.

Program Overview

The program is a collaboration between Columbia University's Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science and the College of Dental Medicine. It offers two tracks:

• Track 1: Predoctoral dental students with a background in engineering earn DDS and PhD in biomedical engineering degrees. This 8-year training track involves 1.5 years of dental school, 4 years of doctoral-level biomedical engineering studies, and 2.5 years of clinical dental training.
• Track 2: Postdoctoral US or foreign-trained dentists are prepared to become independent investigators in dental biomedical engineering research. Only candidates with previous research experience and peer-reviewed publications will be considered.

Research Training Areas

The program offers research training in the following areas:

• Stem Cells and Regenerative engineering
• Craniofacial Imaging and Biomechanics
• Big Data and Deep Learning for Dental Diagnostics
• Detection and Modeling of Oral Diseases

Admission Criteria

To apply to the program, applicants must:

• Have successfully taken the Dental Aptitude Test (DAT)
• Have completed all prerequisite courses for both dental and BME graduate school admissions
• Be a U.S. citizen or permanent resident (Green Card holder)
• Submit a formal application to the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
• Submit an online application to the Columbia University Department of Biomedical Engineering

Application Requirements for Track 1

Applicants must:

• Contact the program director, indicating intent to apply for the D.M.D./Ph.D. program
• Submit a formal application to the Columbia University College of Dental Medicine
• Submit an online application to the Columbia University Department of Biomedical Engineering

Application Requirements for Track 2

The application packet for postdoctoral fellowships should include:

• Applicant’s biographical sketch
• Letter from the applicant’s institution that certifies completion of a dental degree
• Transcripts
• A personal statement with an outline of career goals and a description of how this training will address these career goals
• Three letters of recommendation
• A list of research accomplishments

Financial Support

Funding for D-BEST trainees is provided by a training grant through NIDCR T90/R90 and Institutional Support. It covers:

• NIH stipend based on years of post-degree experience
• Up to 100% of tuition and fees
• Health insurance
• Travel support to attend conferences

Program Directors

The program is directed by:

• Dr. Sunil Wadhwa, Leuman M Waugh Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Growth and Development
• Dr. Helen Lu, Percy K. and Vida L. W. Hudson Professor of Biomedical Engineering and Professor of Dental and Craniofacial Engineering

Conclusion

The D-BEST Program offers a unique opportunity for students to become leaders in the field of dental-biomedical engineering, with a strong foundation in both engineering and dental sciences. The program provides research training in various areas, including stem cells, craniofacial imaging, and big data analysis. With its comprehensive curriculum and financial support, the D-BEST Program is an attractive option for students seeking a career in dental-biomedical engineering research.