2024 Research Seminar Series Begins

September 27, 2024 By Marie Schildknecht

The Research Seminar Series helps students across Roseman University to access and understand scholarly research.

In September, eleven students in the College of Graduate Studies presented in the Research Seminar Series. Of these students, nine presented on important research conducted in the field of oral health.

Wednesday, September 11, 2024

  • “Best Practices for Optimizing Dental Practice Management,” Bryan Chai (Class of 2025)
  • “Nicotine Pouches and Oral Health,” Michael Moleski (Class of 2025)

To watch this session, use passcode: FaZa^ya7.

Tuesday, September 24, 2024

  • “The Interrelation Between Famine and Water Treatment on Oral Development in The Global South,” Rabia Saad (Class of 2025)
  • “The Many Causes of Osteomyelitis of the Jaw,” Maralee Egan (Class of 2025)
  • “Oral Biofilm Phage Therapy,” Kyle Dahlmeier (Class of 2025)

To watch this session, use passcode: $9%S@Pe$.

Wednesday, September 25, 2024

  • “Drug Addiction and Periodontal Disease,” Rahi Patel (Class of 2025)
  • “Association Between Mental Health and Oral Health Status and Care Utilization,” Danielle Bezerra (Class of 2025)
  • “Effects of Electric Toothbrush Versus Manual Toothbrush on Oral Health Care,” Mingeun Richard Song (Class of 2025)

To watch this session, use passcode: GNXQ!R2#.

Thursday, September 26, 2024

  • “Hypertension and Its Role in Predicting Cardiovascular diseases,” Jenna DiCicco (Class of 2026)
  • “How Periodontitis Might Influence Alzheimer’s Disease: A Summary of Findings,” Yee Shan Mak (Class of 2025)
  • “The Correlation Between Sugar-Free Ingredients and Cancer,” Zachary Bernstein (Class of 2025)

To watch this session, use passcode: 0Y?88hXm.

The students who participate in the Research Seminar Series are from Roseman University’s Master of Biomedical Sciences (MBS) program, led by professor Dr. Kamran Awan, and the Master of Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS) led by Interim Assistant Dean for Research Dr. Casey Sayre.

“The MBS program is a one-year, full time graduate level program. It’s primarily focused on providing a rigorous education in the biomedical sciences, with an emphasis on critical thinking, research skills, and professional development,” Dr. Awan explained. “It prepares students for advanced studies in health professions, scientific research, or academia. Many of our students pursue further education in fields like dentistry, medicine, or pharmacy.”

He continued, “A significant portion of our graduates—approximately 80-85%—go on to study dental medicine, with most of them specifically joining our College of Dental Medicine.”

“The MSPS program,” shared Dr. Sayre, “is a two-year thesis-based master’s program meant to prepare students for entry-level scientist positions in pharmaceutical, nutraceutical, biotech, and other life science companies.”

Since the seminar series originated in 2021, it has helped students across Roseman University access and understand scholarly research. Dr. Sayre explained, “Its purpose is to broaden students’ exposure to a variety of research topics through seminars offered by graduate students, faculty, and invited guests from industry, government, academia, and clinical settings.”

Additionally, the seminar series plays a vital role in students’ education. “By participating in these seminars, students gain insights into interdisciplinary approaches to science and healthcare, understand the latest advancements, and learn how to translate research into practice,” shared Dr. Awan. “These seminars also serve as a platform for students to develop their presentation and critical analysis skills. Being student-led, they offer presenters the opportunity to practice articulating complex scientific ideas clearly and effectively, while encouraging attendees to critically evaluate the research being presented, ask insightful questions, and engage in meaningful discussions.”

For Dr. Sayre, the best part of attending these events is watching the students become more poised professionals. He shared, “I love to see the confidence that grows in students as they prepare, practice, then present their seminars.”

“My favorite part of these events is witnessing the transformation of students as they engage with the material and each other,” added Dr. Awan. “It is incredibly rewarding to see students not only grasp complex scientific concepts but also develop the confidence to present their ideas and findings to their peers. I also cherish the moments when students ask insightful questions or contribute unique perspectives during discussions, as it shows their deepening understanding and curiosity about the subject matter. It’s rewarding to facilitate that growth.”

This research series occurs every other week and is open to the entire university community. The next event will be held on October 7, 2024, at 3:00 p.m. PST / 4:00 p.m. MST. For those interested in attending, an invitation and Zoom link will be sent out on the day of the event.