Capacity for training in clinical research: status and opportunities

Area of Science:

• Dental research
• Clinical research training
• Evidence-based dentistry

Background:

• Patient care relies on translational and applied research findings.
• A shortage of trained clinical researchers limits evidence-based therapeutics in dentistry.
• The dental profession requires more faculty trained in clinical research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current state of clinical research in dental schools.
• To identify diverse stakeholders in the clinical research enterprise.
• To explore opportunities and partnerships for clinical research training.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of current clinical research status in dental schools.
• Identification of diverse groups involved in clinical research.
• Examination of funding data for clinical research and training programs.
• Exploration of existing and novel training mechanisms.

Main Results:

• The paper details the current landscape of dental clinical research.
• It identifies key groups involved in research and training.
• Underutilized opportunities and partnerships for training are highlighted.
• Data on funding for research and training programs are presented.

Conclusions:

• Increasing clinical research training is essential for dental schools.
• Expanding training in various settings will boost researcher numbers and faculty involvement.
• Promoting science transfer is vital for evidence-based practice in dentistry.