There really is a free lunch!

The Class of 2013 was invited to a “lunch and learn” on July 26 hosted by the faculty and staff of the University of Florida College of Dentistry National Dental Practice-Based Research Network (NDPBRN).

The goal was to educate the 30 D.M.D. students who attended about the NDPBRN and showcase how they can become involved in the clinical research programs of the network while they are still in dental school and once they have graduated and are practicing. The NDPBRN is coordinating a similar session for each D.M.D. class over the next several weeks.

Deborah McEdward, regional coordinator for the NDPBRN, gave a short informational presentation to the dental students and answered questions. Dr. Valeria Gordan, NDPBRN Regional Director and Dr. Joseph Riley, NDPBRN Regional Deputy Director also spoke to the students about the future opportunities and benefits available to them as members of the NDPBRN after they graduate.

Attendees had the opportunity to learn more about practice-based research and understand some of the research questions of dentists in every day practice.  Regional coordinators Brenda Thacker and Pearl Ann Harris were also on hand to answer questions and share their experiences with the practitioners who have already participated in practice-based research projects.

The National Network has just been funded and UF is one of seven institutions awarded a portion of a $67 million, seven-year grant from the institute. The grant has been used to create a national research network of dentists and dental hygienists. For more information, visit their web page.