Ph.D. in
Translational Dentistry

Apply by September 4, 2026. See the Requirements section.

The Ph.D. in Translational Dentistry offered by the School of Dentistry at Universidad Andrés Bello promotes research and the adoption of emerging technologies such as bioinformatics and artificial intelligence. These tools make it possible to address complex problems through innovative approaches, improving the effectiveness of dental treatments and positioning graduates at the forefront of dental technology.

The doctoral training provided by this Ph.D. program has a direct impact on quality of life. Advances in research and the development of new techniques can lead to better preventive and therapeutic practices, reducing the burden of oral diseases and improving the community’s overall health.

The Ph.D. in Translational Dentistry plays a key role in advancing research and its clinical application in dentistry. It develops highly qualified professionals, promotes technology transfer and innovation, and strengthens ties between academia and industry, making a significant contribution to improving the population’s oral and overall health.

The general objective of the Ph.D. in Translational Dentistry is to provide doctoral education of the highest standard that prepares graduates to address oral and maxillofacial health challenges by designing, conducting, and disseminating original translational research and innovation grounded in a strong scientific and technological foundation. Graduates will also acquire multidisciplinary teamwork tools that enable them to contribute significantly to the advancement of knowledge and technology transfer in dental sciences.

The program’s specific objectives are to:

• Provide opportunities to develop skills in searching, organizing, and critically analyzing scientific literature relevant to the field of study, enabling students to identify knowledge gaps and propose original scientific and technological research.
• Promote the development of cognitive, technical, communication, and teamwork skills needed to conduct outstanding multidisciplinary translational research in dental sciences in accordance with fundamental bioethical principles.
• Create opportunities to promote scientific communication and technology transfer in dental sciences through participation in conferences and science and technology events, publication in specialized journals, and the creation of intellectual property.
• Provide students with opportunities for multidisciplinary academic interaction through strategic partnerships with research institutions, hospitals, and the dental industry in Chile and abroad. These partnerships will facilitate learning in real-world settings, access to professional networks, knowledge exchange, and experience in designing and implementing innovative projects.

Graduates of the Ph.D. in Translational Dentistry at Universidad Andrés Bello possess strong knowledge of dental sciences, bioinformatics tools, and information systems. This enables them to generate original knowledge and science- and technology-based innovation to address oral and maxillofacial health challenges.

They possess the critical analysis skills needed to conduct translational research independently in either of the following research lines: Maxillofacial Tissue Biology or Host-Pathogen Interactions.

Graduates possess the skills and tools needed to work in academia, clinical settings, or industry, integrating basic research and clinical applications while observing bioethical principles. They are also able to communicate the results of their research and innovation to specialist and non-specialist audiences.

A. Application Requirements

Applicants to the Ph.D. in Translational Dentistry must hold a master’s or bachelor’s degree in health sciences or biological sciences, such as dentistry, medicine, nursing, physical therapy, biology, chemistry and pharmacy, medical technology, veterinary medicine, biochemistry, or biotechnology engineering.

Applicants must submit the following documents:

• Application Form (see template). Download and complete it with the requested information.

• Notarized copy of the academic degree certificate*

• Undergraduate transcript

• Undergraduate class-ranking certificate

• If the applicant has completed graduate studies, a notarized copy of the degree certificate and the corresponding transcript

• Copy of both sides of the Chilean identity card or a digital birth certificate. International applicants who do not have a Chilean identity card may submit a copy of their passport.

• Curriculum Vitae

• Statement of Purpose describing the applicant’s interests and reasons for applying to this program and Universidad Andrés Bello

• Two recommendation letters sent by the recommenders from their own email addresses to alejandra.fernandez@unab.cl

* Applicants holding degrees awarded outside Chile must have qualifications equivalent to those specified in the program decree. Applicants who are selected must submit to the Ph.D. Program Office all documentation required by the University before they may complete the enrollment process.