University of Turin

What you'll study

This PhD is a predominantly research-led programme combining advanced theoretical study with laboratory and clinical investigation. Core study areas typically include:

• Research methods and statistics — experimental design, biostatistics, systematic review and evidence synthesis.
• Oral biology and pathology — cellular and molecular bases of oral diseases, tumour biology and oral mucosal pathology.
• Dental materials and biomaterials — properties, testing and biocompatibility of restorative and implant materials.
• Clinical dentistry specialisms — advanced topics in periodontology, endodontics, prosthodontics, implantology, orthodontics and paediatric dentistry as they relate to research and treatment protocols.
• Translational and clinical research — clinical trials methodology, patient-centred outcomes, translational pathways from bench to clinic.
• Ethics, regulation and public health — research ethics, regulatory affairs, infection control and oral health policy.

The programme is structured around an independent research project supervised by academic staff from the university's dental and medical departments, complemented by taught modules, seminars, journal clubs and opportunities for clinical collaboration. Candidates undertake laboratory or clinical work depending on project focus, present progress at departmental meetings and are expected to produce peer-reviewed publications and a doctoral thesis.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised dentistry degree (e.g. DDS/DMD or equivalent) or a relevant master's degree in dental sciences, medicine or biomedical research. Typical application materials include:

• Research proposal outlining objectives, methods and relevance.
• Academic transcript and degree certificates.
• Curriculum vitae listing clinical experience, research activities and publications if any.
• References (academic and/or clinical).
• Identification of a potential supervisor or evidence of agreement with a research group at the university is strongly recommended.

Applicants whose first language is not English (or Italian, where applicable) will need to demonstrate language proficiency to the level required by the university. Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed by the departmental admissions panel. Additional professional registration may be required for any clinical elements of a project.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Dentistry pursue a variety of career paths, including:

• Academic research and teaching — postdoctoral positions, university lecturing and leadership of research groups.
• Clinical specialization and hospital roles — consultancy and specialist practice in hospital departments or private referral centres (following any required specialist training and registration).
• Industry and R&D — roles in dental materials and device companies, clinical research organisations and biotechnology firms.
• Public health and policy — roles in oral health programme development, epidemiology and health service research.
• Regulatory and quality assurance — positions dealing with regulatory affairs, medical device compliance and clinical governance.

The research training and publication record developed during the PhD are key assets for competitive applications to postdoctoral posts, clinical speciality training and senior roles in industry or public health.

Why study at University of Turin

The University of Turin has a long-established medical and biomedical tradition and offers access to multidisciplinary expertise across dentistry, medicine, biomedical engineering and life sciences. The university's dental research groups collaborate with affiliated teaching hospitals and clinical units in Turin, providing opportunities for translational projects that integrate laboratory science with patient care.

Doctoral candidates benefit from supervised research training, regular seminars and an international network of collaborations. The programme environment supports publishing, conference participation and collaboration with industry partners and research consortia, all of which strengthen prospects for an academic or professional career in dentistry.