Driven by a fervor for academics and studies, a Kuwaiti dentist pursued advanced training at the Eastman Institute and obtained a PhD.
Dr. Naemah Alkhars: A Rising Star in Dental Research
Dr. Naemah Alkhars, a dental researcher based at Kuwait University, has made significant strides in her field, particularly in understanding the maternal influence on children's tooth decay development. Her journey to academic success began at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health (EIOH), a renowned institution known for its comprehensive and advanced dental education.
The EIOH offers a unique four-year faculty development program designed to train and prepare dental professionals for faculty roles. This demanding and comprehensive program aims to build educational, clinical, and leadership competencies, and is housed within the University of Rochester Medical Center complex, highlighting its academic stature.
Dr. Alkhars, who is the first foreign-trained EIOH resident to earn her PhD at the University of Rochester, completed this program in 2015. The program requires participants to complete its two-year Advanced Education in General Dentistry program, earn a Master of Science or Master of Public Health degree, pass the American Board of General Dentistry exam, and engage in at least two years of part-time teaching.
During her time at EIOH, Dr. Alkhars was mentored by Dr. Jin Xiao, a DDS, PhD, and EIOH associate professor. Dr. Xiao is proud of Dr. Alkhars' achievements and speaks highly of her dedication and potential.
After completing the EIOH program, Dr. Alkhars pursued her PhD, with the support of her university in Kuwait. Her research focused on a three-dimensional approach to the maternal influence on children's oral health, including the mother's oral health, children's feeding behaviors, and bacteria transmission. This month, she successfully defended her thesis, securing a PhD in Translational Biomedical Science from the University of Rochester's Clinical and Translational Science Institute.
In addition to her research, Dr. Alkhars is currently serving as an assistant professor at Kuwait University, where she mentors dental students, engages in clinical practice, and conducts research. She is also a mother of four children under age 10, and emphasizes the importance of effective time management and a strong support system for balancing motherhood, education, and a career.
Dr. Alkhars' work has not gone unnoticed. In 2019, she won the prestigious Buonocore Research award. She continues to contribute to the field, expressing excitement about diversifying her contributions to address evolving challenges.
Sources:
- Eastman Institute for Oral Health
- University of Rochester Medical Center
- EIOH's Faculty Development Program
- Dr. Naemah Alkhars' Profile
- Buonocore Research Award
- Dr. Alkhars' academic journey in health-and-wellness, specifically dental research, was greatly influenced by her time at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health (EIOH), a institution renowned for its advanced science education and research.
- As a result of her participation in EIOH's rigorous faculty development program, Dr. Alkhars has acquired a unique blend of clinical trials, leadership, and education-and-self-development skills, positioning her for success in women's health research and personal-growth.
- In addition to her influential research on maternal influence on children's tooth decay development, Dr. Alkhars emphasizes the importance of career-development, effective time management, and a strong support system, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to health-and-wellness and personal growth.
