INSPIRE event: Inspiring students into research

Report from prize winner and Dental Institute BDS4 student Daniel Hawkes on the Inspire event held on October 8, 2016.

"The dental Inspire event in early October was an excellent opportunity for dental students from across the United Kingdom to learn about the prospect of dental research."

Daniel continues: "Dental professional presenters expressed the benefits of engaging in research, from being immersed in exciting topics, to contributing towards the rapidly developing dental field.


Additionally, those wishing to continue with predominantly clinical practice whilst exploring academia, had opportunities of clinical audits and networking. Recently qualified dentists spoke of enhanced career prospects as well as the opportunity to travel the world presenting their work. 

Furthermore, the dental Inspire event provided participants with a unique chance to meet other motivated dental students interested in research. There were over 30 research topics presented, ranging from – from dental HIV testing to using a virtual environment to improve clinical skills. The students presented research from either their summer or intercalation projects. The Inspire event highlighted the advantages of post-graduate dental research, along with the opportunities that can arise from research prior to graduation. After a successful second year, it would be excellent to increase the involvement of students in insightful events such as these."