Oral Biology, PhD

The PhD program provides training for those who wish to pursue basic and/or clinical research in dental medicine or the biomedical sciences. Candidates may include those with bachelor's, master's, or DDS (or equivalent) degrees. 

FALL 2026 ENROLLMENT  |  Check Back Spring 2025 for Deadline

Program Co-Directors:

Photo of Jill Kramer.

Dr. Jill Kramer

Department of Oral Biology
jkramer@buffalo.edu

Photo of Rose-Anne Romano.

Dr. Rose-Anne Romano

Department of Oral Biology
rromano2@buffalo.edu

About the Program Admissions Requirements How to Apply Faculty and Curriculum Cost and Funding

How to Apply

Fall Enrollment

Standard application time: June 1 - February 1

Admissions decisions are typically released in April

Program start date: August 15

Please electronically submit all documents listed below.  Your application will not be complete until these items have been received. All materials must be received by the application deadline.

1. The UB Application

  • You must select your desired entry term (i.e. Fall 2025) and intended program of study as you begin the application.
  • Note international candidates: In the personal information section, be sure to enter your name exactly as it is on your passport.

2. $50.00 non-refundable application fee

  • You will be able to pay the application fee via the link in your applicant portal. Please note that the $50 application fee is required and non-refundable.

3. CV/Resume

  • Include a copy of your CV/resume.

4. Personal Statement

  • Include your personal statement.

5. Letters of Recommendation

  • All programs require a minimum of three letters. For clinical programs, the requirements include two letters of recommendation and a Dean's/IEF letter. Internationally trained dentists do not need a Dean's letter. 
  • Recommendation letters must be uploaded electronically by your recommenders. 
  • Be sure to have the names, titles and email addresses for your recommenders when completing the application. They will receive an email request to electronically submit a letter on your behalf. 

6. Unofficial transcripts from all institutions

  • Transcript copies are sufficient at the time of application.  
  • Do not mail original documents. 
  • Note international candidates: Academic documents from international institutions must be accompanied by an ECE or WES copy.  ECE course-by-course report is preferred.  A copy of certificate/diploma with proof of degree is suggested.

International Applicants

In addition to the requirements listed above, please provide the following with your application:

7. English Language Proficiency

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency via guidelines set by the University. A score report copy is sufficient.

The SDM accepts the following:

  • TOEFL: 79 or higher
  • IELTS: 6.5 or higher
  • Duolingo: 120 or higher

8. Financial Form

A program specific Financial Form is a required application material and is accessible via the candidate portal.

* All documents become property of the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine and are not returnable to the applicant.