Our research spans the full spectrum of discovery—from uncovering the building blocks of life in cells and tissues, to developing new technologies, to advancing patient care. Our scientists and clinicians use their special knowledge of the head and neck to continually uncover new insights not only about oral health, but human health in general.
Our basic science researchers investigate the fundamental biology of cells, tissues, and development. Their discoveries reveal how cancer cells behave, why some diseases advance more aggressively, and how structures in the head and neck evolve and repair themselves. These insights lay the foundation for future therapies and innovations.
Example research areas:
Craniofacial and head/neck development
Cancer biology and tumor behavior
Sleep and salivary gland biology
Translational Research
Transforming knowledge into real-world solutions
Bridging the lab and the clinic, our translational research transforms biological insights into new therapies, devices, and technologies. Collaborating with engineers, clinicians, and industry partners, UCSF School of Dentistry researchers develop tools that accelerate progress from concept to patient impact.
Example research areas:
Modeling tissue growth and repair
Applying breast cancer insights to salivary gland cancer
Developing new diagnostic tools for oral and systemic disease
Clinical Research
Where research becomes real care
From the earliest recognition of HIV in oral health to breakthroughs in craniosynostosis surgery, UCSF School of Dentistry has a history of translating research into care that changes—and saves—lives. Our clinical research advances treatments for oral cancers, head and neck diseases, and conditions that affect millions worldwide.
Example research areas:
Head and neck cancer survivorship
Craniofacial anomalies and surgical innovation
Oral-systemic disease connections
Collaboration and Impact
We go further, together
Our strength comes from collaboration—across labs, across disciplines, and across the UCSF community. The School of Dentistry is part of a world-class biomedical hub, offering opportunities for researchers, donors, and students to join in shaping the future of health.
The Dental Student Research Fellowship Program offers dental students ways to participate in mentored research during their time at UCSF. This select group of students work closely with faculty to investigate important research topics that could make a big difference in the field.
As a leader in multidisciplinary scientific and clinical research, the School of Dentistry has strong cross-campus involvement investigating stem cells, oral/head and neck cancer, health disparities, and craniofacial biology. We also participate in other research areas, including biomaterials/bioengineering, cell and tissue biology, hard tissue biology, and AIDS research.
Faculty in the Department of Cell and Tissue Biology investigate basic molecular, cellular and tissue processes to achieve fundamental insights, and as a vehicle for understanding and treating disease .
These highly-skilled researchers work collaboratively to study the cellular, molecular, regulatory, and evolutionary mechanisms underlying the development of the craniofacial complex, as well as important cartilage, muscles, and other tissues .
This interdisciplinary graduate program provides our students with the research tools and support to study craniofacial development, oral health, and disease processes and treatments .
With a focus on basic, translational, and clinical research, UCSF’s world- renowned OMFS faculty and residents conduct studies in premier research hospitals and labs, advancing science and improving patient care .
The Global Oral Health Program develops, coordinates, and supports research, educational, and service initiatives within the School of Dentistry and beyond .
UCSF receives significant support from the NIH, the world’s largest public funder of biomedical research. This relationship allows UCSF researchers to make an even bigger impact on improving and transforming patient care.
#1
recipient of NIH grants among schools of dentistry
57
NIH awards received in 2024
$23,165,190
total of 2024 NIH awards
Donate
Support our work, make an impact
Your generous support helps fuel groundbreaking research and innovation at UCSF School of Dentistry. Donations enable us to provide scholarships, fund state-of-the-art equipment, and support pioneering research projects that change lives. Discover how your contribution can make a lasting impact on oral and overall health care.
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