The UI College of Dentistry and Dental Clinics is a global leader in oral science and dental and craniofacial research

Dental Research with a lasting impact

At the forefront of innovation, the College of Dentistry is advancing oral health research with a mission to address both foundational and emerging challenges in dental science. Our research spans a wide range of topics, from improving patient outcomes and developing new technologies to tackling the underlying causes of oral diseases. Each study, whether in the lab or clinic, reflects our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for individuals and communities around the world.

Over the last several years, the UI College of Dentistry has more than doubled its external research funding from the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR), vaulting from 24th in the nation and $2.2M to 13th overall and $4.8M in the latest rankings.

8

major areas of research

# 13

nationally in NIDCR funding

$ 26M +

in funding since 2022

40 %

of DDS students participate in research

Research News

Aline Petrin

University of Iowa Researcher Receives NIH Grant to Investigate Epigenetic Mechanisms Behind Orofacial Clefts

Tuesday, July 21, 2026
Aline Petrin, assistant professor at the University of Iowa College of Dentistry, has received a National Institutes of Health award to advance understanding of the biological mechanisms underlying nonsyndromic orofacial clefts, the most common craniofacial birth defect worldwide.