Dental Hygiene Researcher Job Description [Updated for 2024]

In an era of heightened awareness about oral health, the role of dental hygiene researchers is critical and compelling.

As medical science progresses, the demand for skilled individuals who can investigate, develop, and enhance our dental hygiene practices grows ever stronger.

But let’s delve deeper: What’s actually expected from a dental hygiene researcher?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker striving to understand the intricacies of this role,
• A hiring manager outlining the perfect candidate,
• Or simply fascinated by the world of dental hygiene research,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we are revealing a customizable dental hygiene researcher job description template, devised for effortless posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive straight into it.

Dental Hygiene Researcher Duties and Responsibilities

Dental Hygiene Researchers conduct in-depth studies into the area of oral health with an aim to improve preventive measures, treatment options and overall oral health awareness.

They are instrumental in advancing our understanding of dental health, diseases and treatment methods.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting research on oral health diseases and preventive methods
• Developing and managing clinical trials to test new procedures, techniques and products
• Collecting and analyzing data to determine the effectiveness of certain dental hygiene procedures and products
• Presenting findings in scientific publications and at conferences
• Collaborating with other scientists and industry professionals to further research efforts
• Working with public health agencies to implement research findings into public dental health policies
• Keeping up-to-date with the latest developments in dental research and technologies
• Applying for grants and funding to support research projects
• Complying with ethical guidelines and regulations during research.

 

Dental Hygiene Researcher Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are in search of a dedicated Dental Hygiene Researcher to join our team.

The candidate will be responsible for conducting in-depth research on oral health and hygiene, developing new techniques for dental care, and implementing research findings into practice.

The ideal candidate should be familiar with experimental research methods, knowledgeable about oral diseases, and have a strong understanding of dental hygiene practices.

The aim of this role is to contribute to our understanding of dental hygiene and develop more effective strategies for oral care.

 

Responsibilities

• Conduct extensive research on various aspects of dental hygiene and oral health
• Design and conduct experimental studies related to oral health
• Collaborate with other researchers and professionals in the dental field
• Analyze and interpret data collected from studies and research
• Present research findings at conferences and to other stakeholders
• Develop new strategies and techniques for dental care based on research findings
• Contribute to the development of oral health policies and guidelines
• Stay up-to-date with latest advancements in the field of dental hygiene
• Write and submit research papers for publication in scientific journals

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Dental Hygiene Researcher or similar role
• Advanced knowledge of oral diseases and dental hygiene practices
• Experience with experimental research methods
• Excellent analytical and interpretation skills
• Strong written and oral communication skills
• PhD or Master’s degree in Dental Hygiene, Dental Science, or a related field

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Dental Hygiene Researcher
• Work Environment: This role primarily involves working in a lab or office setting. Travel may be required for conferences or to collaborate with other researchers.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Director of Research or Head of Dental Department.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate’s experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $120,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Dental Hygiene Researcher Do?

Dental Hygiene Researchers play a vital role in improving oral health care by conducting extensive research and studies in the field of dental hygiene.

They work in various settings, including universities, private research institutions, or dental product companies.

Their primary responsibility involves investigating and examining different dental hygiene practices, products, and techniques to ascertain their effectiveness and safety.

They engage in activities such as developing research proposals, collecting and analyzing data, and conducting experiments.

They aim to gain a deeper understanding of oral diseases and conditions, and their correlation with systemic health.

They often focus on preventive care and education to avoid dental diseases.

Dental Hygiene Researchers also contribute to the development of innovative dental care products, tools, and equipment by providing critical insights and findings from their research.

Furthermore, they publish their research results in scientific journals and present their findings at conferences to share their knowledge with other professionals in the field.

They might also teach and mentor dental hygiene students, guiding them in their own research projects.

Their ultimate goal is to improve dental hygiene practices and products to enhance oral health care outcomes for individuals and communities.

 

Dental Hygiene Researcher Qualifications and Skills

A proficient Dental Hygiene Researcher should possess the following skills and qualifications:

• Extensive knowledge in dental hygiene, oral health diseases, and prevention methods.
• Strong scientific research skills to design and conduct experiments, as well as analyze and interpret data.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities to develop innovative solutions for oral hygiene issues.
• Proficiency in using various laboratory equipment and tools for research and testing.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills to present research findings clearly to peers, dental professionals, and the public.
• Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in research findings and to observe subtle symptoms or changes during study phases.
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a research team, demonstrating effective interpersonal skills.
• High level of ethical standards and understanding of medical research regulations and guidelines.
• Ability to stay updated with latest dental hygiene research, treatments and technologies.
• Doctorate degree in dental hygiene, dentistry, or a related field, with significant experience in research. Professional certifications in dental hygiene can also be beneficial.

 

Dental Hygiene Researcher Experience Requirements

Dental Hygiene Researchers often start their journey by earning a bachelor’s or master’s degree in dental hygiene, health science, or a related field.

During their education, they typically gain valuable experience through laboratory work, internships, or research projects.

Entry-level candidates usually have 1 to 2 years of experience in dental hygiene practice or research, often obtained through internships, part-time roles, or postgraduate study.

These professionals may also acquire experience by working in roles such as Dental Hygienist, Dental Research Assistant, or Dental Laboratory Technician.

Candidates with more than 3 years of experience have likely enhanced their knowledge and skill set in the field of dental hygiene research.

They may have conducted independent research, presented their findings at conferences, or published their work in scientific journals.

Those with over 5 years of experience may have held positions of greater responsibility, such as Project Manager, Research Team Leader, or even Principal Investigator.

They may have overseen and directed a range of research projects, mentored junior researchers, and contributed significantly to the field of dental hygiene research.

These individuals are often well-versed in applying for and managing research grants, collaborating with other researchers, and maintaining high ethical standards in their work.

 

Dental Hygiene Researcher Education and Training Requirements

A Dental Hygiene Researcher typically requires a Bachelor’s degree in Dental Hygiene or a related field.

This program provides a comprehensive study of dental hygiene procedures, oral health education, and preventative dental care.

In addition to the bachelor’s degree, they are also required to pass the National Board Dental Hygiene Examination and a state-specific clinical examination to become a registered dental hygienist.

Some positions may require a Master’s degree or Ph.D. in Dental Hygiene or a similar discipline, particularly for those interested in advancing their research capabilities and participating in high-level studies.

Knowledge of research methodologies, statistical analysis, and familiarity with dental health-related software could also be beneficial.

Further, many Dental Hygiene Researchers opt for additional certifications in areas like oral pathology, radiology, or periodontology, which can enhance their expertise and offer more opportunities within the field.

The willingness to engage in continuous learning through professional development courses and workshops is also highly valued in this profession.

 

Dental Hygiene Researcher Salary Expectations

The average salary for a Dental Hygiene Researcher is approximately $75,230 (USD) per year.

However, the actual earnings can fluctuate based on factors such as the individual’s level of experience in the field, their educational qualifications, and the location and nature of their employing institution or organization.

 

Dental Hygiene Researcher Job Description FAQs

What qualifications do Dental Hygiene Researchers require?

Dental Hygiene Researchers typically require a Bachelor’s degree in dental hygiene or a related field.

They may also need a Master’s degree or a Ph.D. for advanced research roles.

In addition, they need to be licensed to practice dental hygiene.

 

What skills are essential for a Dental Hygiene Researcher?

Key skills for Dental Hygiene Researchers include strong research and analytical skills, an understanding of dental hygiene practices, and the ability to interpret and analyze data.

They should also have excellent written and verbal communication skills to share their research findings.

 

What does a typical day look like for a Dental Hygiene Researcher?

A typical day for a Dental Hygiene Researcher might involve designing and conducting studies related to oral health, analyzing data, and presenting research findings.

They might also spend time reviewing scientific literature, writing grant proposals, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals.

 

What should you look for in a Dental Hygiene Researcher’s resume?

When evaluating a Dental Hygiene Researcher’s resume, look for a strong educational background in dental hygiene or a related field, experience in conducting research, and evidence of published work in reputable journals.

Also look for their familiarity with data analysis tools and their ability to work independently or as part of a team.

 

What qualities make a good Dental Hygiene Researcher?

A good Dental Hygiene Researcher is meticulous, has a deep understanding of dental hygiene, and is passionate about improving oral health through research.

They should be self-motivated, able to work collaboratively with a team, and have strong problem-solving skills.

They should also have excellent communication skills to effectively present their research findings.

 

Is it challenging to hire Dental Hygiene Researchers?

Hiring Dental Hygiene Researchers can be challenging due to the specialized skills and knowledge required for the role.

However, attracting potential candidates can be easier if you offer opportunities for professional development, competitive salaries, and a supportive work environment.

 

Conclusion

And that’s the inside scoop.

Today, we’ve drilled down into the true nature of being a dental hygiene researcher.

And guess what?

It’s not just about clean teeth.

It’s about pioneering advancements in oral health, one research project at a time.

Armed with our trusty dental hygiene researcher job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to make your mark.

But why limit yourself?

Sink your teeth deeper with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate tool for meticulously crafting job listings or polishing your resume to gleaming perfection.

Remember:

Every research project is a part of the larger goal.

Let’s shape the future of oral health. Together.

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