PhD in Oral & Craniofacial Biomedicine

The PhD in Oral & Craniofacial Biomedicine at UNC School of Medicine, Chapel Hill is an interdisciplinary, research-focused doctoral program that investigates the development, function, diseases, and healing mechanisms of the oral and craniofacial complex. The program integrates principles from immunology, embryology, physiology, cellular and molecular biology, pharmacology, microbiology, and biochemistry to understand biological processes and disease mechanisms affecting oral and craniofacial structures. Students receive advanced training through graduate coursework, laboratory research, seminars, and dissertation studies, with research opportunities in areas such as craniofacial development, skeletal biology, host–pathogen interactions, tissue regeneration, extracellular matrix biology, cancer research, and oral disease mechanisms. The program prepares graduates for careers as independent biomedical researchers in academic institutions, healthcare research, biotechnology, and related scientific fields.

1. Applicants with DDS, DMD, MD, or equivalent professional biomedical degrees apply directly to the Oral & Craniofacial Biomedicine PhD program through the UNC Graduate School application system.
2. Applicants without advanced professional biomedical degrees apply through the UNC Biological & Biomedical Sciences Program (BBSP) application portal.
3. Submit required application materials:

• Academic transcripts
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) / Resume
• Statement of purpose describing research interests and career goals
• Letters of recommendation
• English proficiency scores (for eligible international applicants)

1. Applications are reviewed based on academic background, research experience, scientific interests, and potential for doctoral research.
2. Shortlisted candidates participate in an interview process before final admission decisions.
3. Accepted BBSP students complete first-year interdisciplinary training and research rotations before selecting a faculty mentor and beginning specialized OCBM PhD research.
4. Students complete doctoral coursework, qualifying examinations, dissertation research, and dissertation defense to earn the PhD degree.