Undergraduate Dental Research Society (UDRS) is a new scientific hub created and managed by students who work closely with academics in and beyond our Institute of Dentistry (IoD). Our primary aim is to provide extensive support for the involvement of undergraduate students in clinical audits and research activities and expand our own knowledge towards using and conducting scientific research.
A one-time opportunity during the course of study has arisen to engage two enthusiastic BDS5 students in a unique research activity within the IoD, specifically in the field of periodontology. This research project is part of a larger study leading the IoD toward a more digital transformation and the evaluation of every step in this process.
The selected students will be involved in patient periodontal assessments, record-keeping, and data entry using new features integrated into the Millennium Software, over a 10-week period. Engagement sessions will take place on Wednesday afternoons, and students should be able to attend all ten sessions. The session details are as follows:
Week 1: Training session. Both students will become familiar with the study, including the required forms and software. They will observe and learn the process of data collection, which includes reviewing patients' background and medical history records, dental history, chief complaints, clinical and radiographic assessments of general oral health, and periodontal status. This session is scheduled for 11/10/2023 or shortly thereafter.
Weeks 2-9: Each student will attend the research clinic for four sessions and assist with data entry during the other four sessions.
Week 10: Students are expected to provide a brief logbook-like description of their activities and what they have learned. Feedback will be provided during this session.
This is an unpaid opportunity. Students will neither be required to pay for their participation nor receive payment for their assistance. The goal is to provide students interested in research with hands-on experience. Dr. Jeniffer Perussolo will be the main supervisor to whom students should report.
Please contact Dr Ali Golkari the UDRS convener at a.golkari@qmul.ac.uk by Thursday 5th of October if you are interested in this opportunity. Student commitment is crucial, as it will not be possible to replace a student midway through the activity. Therefore, we ask academics to ensure they select students with a strong track record of commitment to their student activities. Our aim is for interested students to benefit from this experience without adversely affecting their primary studies, which should remain their top priority. Applicants' academic records and achievements will be evaluated before selection, and a brief interview may also be conducted.