HEC Approved

Oral and Dental disease is a world-wide problem, that lead to the loss of quality of life. Dentistry is changing at an alarming rate, primarily driven by the results of modern research. In order to keep pace with current trends, constant updating of knowledge is mandatory. Due to unique combination of tissues and functions of the oral and craniofacial complex, the field of oral biology blends fundamental scientific disciplines in unique and fascinating ways to meet the challenges of developing new and highly effective ways to manage, cure or prevent diseases and developmental defects.

Oral biology is a broad scientific discipline that encompasses a range of basic and clinical/applied sciences. Our two-year, full-time MPhil course at Khyber Medical University has a strong focus on teaching current biological understanding related to Introduction to Oral Biology, Oral and Craniofacial Development, Head Neck and Oral Anatomy, Oral Physiology, Oral Histology and Pathology, Saliva and Oral Microbiome, Molecular Cell Biology, Tissue Engineering, Research Techniques, Biosafety, Health Research and Health Professional Education.

The Department of Oral Biology at KMU was established in 2022 and has three faculty members. Graduates from this programme will have a broad spectrum of knowledge and a variety of skills. This course will give the students a comprehensive yet specialized biomedical skillset that will enable them to discover the latest advances in therapeutic dentistry, nano-dentistry, and tissue engineering. Our focus is to provide the MPhil scholars with the basic and advanced knowledge and its implications to help contribute to the future of oral health in the society. In long term, our aim is to recruit additional scientists to broaden our commitments to cutting edge research and training in the molecular basis of diseases that affect people around the world. We are also planning to start PhD Oral Biology program at IBMS, KMU but awaiting approval from HEC.

The MPhil in Oral Biology at Khyber Medical University is a postgraduate program designed to produce highly competent dental professionals and researchers. The program provides in-depth knowledge of the structure, development, and function of oral tissues, integrating basic medical sciences with clinical dentistry. It lays a strong foundation for careers in academia, research, and specialized clinical practice.

Mission: "To promote professional competence through learning and innovation for providing comprehensive quality health care to the nation."

• Professional Competence:
  The MPhil Oral Biology program cultivates an advanced understanding of oral and craniofacial structures, pathology, and biomaterials. Students engage in critical thinking, scientific writing, and laboratory techniques essential for becoming expert dental educators and researchers.
• Learning and Innovation:
  With modern teaching methodologies, hands-on lab work, and interdisciplinary learning, the program fosters innovation. Students are encouraged to undertake research projects that address local oral health issues, thereby contributing to evidence-based practices.
• Quality Health Care:
  By training graduates in both theory and applied oral biology, the program helps bridge the gap between basic science and clinical dentistry. This ensures that graduates contribute to better diagnosis, prevention, and management of oral diseases—improving the overall healthcare system.

Vision: "To be the global leader in health sciences academics and research for efficient and compassionate health care."

• Global Leadership in Academics:
  The program is structured according to international standards in health sciences education. It equips students to publish in peer-reviewed journals, present at conferences, and pursue PhDs globally, elevating KMU’s academic reputation.
• Research Excellence:
  Research is a core component. MPhil scholars undertake thesis work on contemporary oral health challenges, biomaterials, and oral-systemic health links, contributing to local and global scientific advancement.
• Compassionate Health Care:
  Emphasis on ethics, community engagement, and evidence-based knowledge ensures that graduates not only excel academically but also serve with empathy and social responsibility.

Speciality Courses

These courses are designed for the in-depth study of Oral Biology Subjects. The basic knowledge will be learned to a level to teach postgraduate students and professions allied to dentistry. This part of the course is largely self-directed, with regular tutorials and laboratory sessions and taught by respective faculty. The related specialty courses of each specialty are mentioned in their corresponding sections.

Head, Neck, and Oral Anatomy
This specialty provides in-depth knowledge of the structural organization of the head, neck, and oral cavity, enabling students to understand clinical correlations essential for independent practice. It supports safe diagnosis and treatment planning while fostering professional competence in oral healthcare delivery.

Oral Physiology
Oral Physiology focuses on the functional mechanisms of oral tissues and systems, emphasizing their role in health and disease. This knowledge equips graduates to apply evidence-based approaches in clinical and research settings, addressing community oral health needs in Pakistan.

Oral Histology and Pathology
This area develops understanding of the microscopic structure of oral tissues and disease processes, strengthening diagnostic skills and critical thinking. It prepares students to contribute to early disease detection and improved patient outcomes through scholarly inquiry.

Saliva and Oral Microbiome
This specialty explores the biological role of saliva and the oral microbiome in maintaining oral and systemic health. It promotes research-driven strategies for disease prevention and management relevant to local population health challenges.

Introduction to Oral Biology
This foundational subject integrates basic biological concepts related to oral health, fostering a holistic understanding of oral tissues and functions. It encourages lifelong learning and critical appraisal of emerging scientific evidence.

Oral and Craniofacial Development
This specialty examines normal and abnormal development of craniofacial structures, enabling early identification of developmental disorders. It supports socially accountable practice by addressing congenital and developmental health needs within the community

The integration of journal club discussions into all courses enhances the critical appraisal of original research and review articles. Students participate in seminars on literature searching, systematic review, and synopsis writing. Regular sessions develop skills in scientific writing and critical analysis. Faculty-led workshops introduce postgraduate scholars to emerging research methodologies and techniques.