Dental Researcher Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s healthcare industry, the focus on dental researchers is rapidly increasing.
As scientific advancements continue to unfold, there is a growing demand for expert minds who can explore, enhance, and safeguard our oral health knowledge and practices.
But let’s delve deeper: What does a dental researcher truly do?
Whether you are:
- A job seeker attempting to grasp the core of this role,
- A hiring manager defining the perfect candidate,
- Or simply curious about the intricacies of dental research,
You’ve come to the right place.
Today, we present a customizable dental researcher job description template, designed for seamless posting on job boards or career sites.
Let’s dive in.
Dental Researcher Duties and Responsibilities
Dental Researchers are specialized scientists who focus on improving oral health by researching diseases and conditions affecting the mouth and teeth.
They work to develop better dental care methods, innovative treatment techniques and preventive measures.
Their duties and responsibilities include:
- Conducting research on oral diseases and health conditions
- Developing and testing new dental materials and equipment
- Investigating the causes and effects of oral diseases
- Creating and conducting experiments to analyze and test dental procedures, treatments, and techniques
- Collaborating with dental professionals and other scientists to gather data
- Writing research papers, reports, and presentations to share research findings
- Staying updated on the latest research and developments in the field of dentistry
- Applying for research funding and grants
- Ensuring all research is conducted in line with ethical guidelines and standards
- Participating in conferences, seminars, and workshops to share findings and learn about other research in the field
Dental Researcher Job Description Template
Job Brief
We are seeking a dedicated Dental Researcher to conduct high-quality research in various aspects of dentistry.
The Dental Researcher’s responsibilities include formulating research methodologies, analyzing data, presenting findings, and staying updated on the latest industry trends.
Our ideal candidate should have a deep understanding of dental science, strong analytical abilities, and excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Ultimately, the Dental Researcher will help to advance our understanding of oral health and contribute to the development of innovative dental treatments.
Responsibilities
- Design and implement research studies and experiments in various areas of dentistry
- Analyze data and interpret results to draw conclusions
- Prepare detailed reports and scientific articles to present research findings
- Stay updated on the latest dental research and technologies
- Conduct laboratory tests and procedures
- Collaborate with other scientists or researchers to conduct research
- Ensure all research practices and procedures comply with ethical standards and regulations
- Seek funding for research projects
- Present research findings at scientific conferences or seminars
Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Dentistry, Oral Biology, or a related field
- Proven experience as a Dental Researcher or similar role
- Excellent knowledge of dental science and research methodologies
- Strong analytical and statistical skills
- Experience with laboratory procedures and equipment
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Ability to present complex data in a clear and concise manner
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Professional development opportunities
- Funding for research projects
Additional Information
- Job Title: Dental Researcher
- Work Environment: Laboratory and office setting. Some travel may be required for scientific conferences or seminars.
- Reporting Structure: Reports to the Head of Research Department.
- Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
- Pay Range: $75,000 minimum to $150,000 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, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of published articles or research to [email address or application portal].
What Does a Dental Researcher Do?
Dental Researchers mainly work in academic or healthcare research facilities.
They can also be employed by government agencies or dental product manufacturers.
Their main role is to conduct research on oral health conditions and the effectiveness of various dental procedures and products.
They often collaborate with other dental professionals, scientists, and statisticians to gather and analyze data.
Dental Researchers are responsible for developing and testing hypotheses related to oral health, dental treatments, and prevention strategies.
This can involve laboratory work, clinical trials, or population-based studies.
They write research reports and articles and often present their findings at scientific conferences or in academic journals.
Their work aids in the development of new treatments and improves understanding of dental diseases, leading to better oral health outcomes.
Dental Researchers also participate in grant writing and fundraising activities to secure funding for their research projects.
They might be involved in the creation and testing of new dental products, such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, or dental instruments.
In some cases, Dental Researchers may teach or supervise students in dental schools, sharing their knowledge and expertise with the next generation of dental professionals.
Dental Researcher Qualifications and Skills
A competent Dental Researcher should possess the following skills and qualifications that align with your job description:
- Strong academic background in dental science and a PhD or equivalent in a relevant field such as dental surgery, oral pathology or oral microbiology.
- Proven experience in conducting dental research, including ability to design, execute, and interpret research studies.
- Sound knowledge of latest developments and techniques in dental science and research.
- Proficiency in statistical analysis and scientific software to analyze and interpret data.
- Excellent scientific writing skills to write research papers, reports, and grant proposals.
- Strong presentation skills to present research findings at scientific conferences and meetings.
- Good teamwork skills to work effectively with other researchers, dental professionals and support staff.
- High level of attention to detail for conducting precise and accurate experiments and procedures.
- Problem-solving abilities to troubleshoot research issues and develop innovative research methodologies.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet research deadlines.
- Commitment to ethical research practices and maintaining patient confidentiality.
Dental Researcher Experience Requirements
Dental Researchers typically begin their journey in the field by pursuing a Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field such as biology, chemistry, or dental science.
Many opt to gain practical experience through internships, research projects, or part-time roles in a laboratory or dental clinic during their undergraduate studies.
Upon graduation, most aspiring Dental Researchers pursue a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Medicine in Dentistry (DMD) degree, during which they can choose to focus on research.
This academic experience not only provides them with a thorough understanding of dental science, but also gives them ample opportunities to participate in research projects, often contributing to published studies.
After obtaining their doctoral degree, many Dental Researchers opt for a postdoctoral fellowship in dental research, which allows them to gain specialized research experience under the supervision of experienced scientists.
This can last between 2 to 3 years, during which they are expected to lead their own research projects.
Candidates with more than 5 years of experience are likely to have an extensive research portfolio with numerous published studies.
They may have also developed their skills in grant writing and project management.
These individuals are often considered for senior Dental Researcher positions, and may even be entrusted with leading a team of junior researchers.
It’s not uncommon for Dental Researchers to continually engage in professional development throughout their career, as staying abreast with the latest research methodologies, technological advancements, and findings is crucial in this ever-evolving field.
Dental Researcher Education and Training Requirements
Dental Researchers typically need to have a Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS) or Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD) degree from an accredited dental program.
They must also have a strong background in scientific research methods and statistical analysis.
Some positions may require a master’s degree or Ph.D. in a related field such as epidemiology, biology, or public health.
In addition to these qualifications, Dental Researchers should have completed coursework in microbiology, genetics, and biochemistry.
They might also need to be familiar with specialized lab equipment and research software.
It’s often beneficial for Dental Researchers to have completed a postdoctoral research fellowship in a relevant field, providing them with the practical experience needed to conduct independent research.
Licensure is not typically required for Dental Researchers as they do not provide direct patient care.
However, if a Dental Researcher decides to practice clinically, they will need to obtain a license.
Continuing education is crucial for Dental Researchers to stay updated on the latest research findings and techniques.
Many pursue additional courses or attend conferences and seminars in their areas of interest.
Lastly, certain positions may require Dental Researchers to have specific certifications such as Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) or Certified Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC).
These certifications can demonstrate a candidate’s competence and dedication to the field.
Dental Researcher Salary Expectations
A Dental Researcher can expect to earn an average salary of $75,841 (USD) per year.
However, the salary can fluctuate based on factors such as experience, the reputation of the institution or company they work for, the location of their job, and the specific field of dental research they are engaged in.
Dental Researcher Job Description FAQs
What qualifications does a Dental Researcher need?
A Dental Researcher typically needs at least a doctoral degree in dental science or a related field.
Post-doctoral research experience is often preferred.
In addition to this, one must have a thorough understanding of research methodologies, statistical analysis, and the ability to write grant proposals.
Some positions may require the researcher to be a licensed dentist.
What skills are required for a Dental Researcher?
Dental Researchers need to have a strong background in scientific research and a deep understanding of oral health issues.
They must possess strong analytical skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities.
Proficiency in using scientific software for data analysis and having excellent written and verbal communication skills for presenting findings are also crucial.
What are the typical responsibilities of a Dental Researcher?
Dental Researchers primarily conduct research in various aspects of dentistry, including oral diseases, dental materials, dental health policies, and more.
They design and implement research studies, analyze data, interpret results, and publish their findings in scientific journals.
They may also apply for grants, present their research at conferences, and stay updated on the latest research in their field.
What qualities make a good Dental Researcher?
A good Dental Researcher has a deep passion for science and an insatiable curiosity about the causes and treatments of oral health issues.
They should have meticulous attention to detail for conducting experiments, analyzing data, and interpreting results.
Persistence and patience are also key qualities as research can be a slow and iterative process.
Good Dental Researchers are also adept at collaborating with other researchers and professionals in the field.
Is it difficult to hire a Dental Researcher?
Hiring a Dental Researcher can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.
The candidate not only needs to have a solid background in dental science but also needs to have strong research skills.
Finding a candidate with the right blend of scientific knowledge and research capability can be difficult.
However, offering competitive salaries, professional development opportunities, and a supportive research environment can help attract potential candidates.
Conclusion
There you have it.
Today, we’ve delved into the complex, intriguing world of being a dental researcher.
And guess what?
It’s not just about studying teeth.
It’s about shaping the future of oral health, one research project at a time.
With our handy dental researcher job description template and real-world examples, you’re ready to take the next step.
But don’t stop there!
Go beyond the surface with our job description generator. It’s your key to creating precision-crafted job listings or fine-tuning your resume to stand out.
Remember:
Every research project contributes to a broader understanding of oral health.
Let’s shape that future. Together.
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