Eager for Academic Advancement, a Dentist from Kuwait Pursues Education and Researches at the Eastman Institute, Securing a PhD
Dr. Naemah Alkhars, a mother of four children under the age of 10, has recently secured a PhD in Translational Biomedical Science from the University of Rochester's Clinical and Translational Science Institute. This significant achievement is a testament to her deep-rooted passion for education and her desire to contribute to the advancement of dental knowledge and inspire future dental professionals.
In 2015, Dr. Alkhars joined Eastman Institute for Oral Health's (EIOH) four-year faculty development program. The EIOH program, known for its comprehensive and advanced dental education, provides an opportunity for participants to work with a multidisciplinary team. Dr. Alkhars' mentor during this program is Dr. Jin Xiao, an EIOH associate professor.
Throughout her time at EIOH, Dr. Alkhars published eight research papers related to maternal influence on children's tooth decay development. Her thesis explored 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. In 2019, she won the prestigious Buonocore Research award at the American Association of Dental Research's Rochester session, recognising her significant contributions to the field.
The EIOH program requires participants to complete its 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, engage in at least two years of part-time teaching, and take graduate courses in education at the Warner School of Education. Dr. Alkhars is the first foreign-trained EIOH resident to earn her PhD at the University of Rochester.
After completing her PhD, Dr. Alkhars is now serving as an assistant professor at Kuwait University, where she mentors dental students, engages in clinical practice, and conducts research. Her role at Kuwait University includes addressing dental needs and aligning with preventive trends.
Dr. Alkhars emphasises the importance of effective time management and a strong support system for balancing motherhood, education, and a career. She acknowledges her husband and parents for their continued support and encouragement.
For more detailed information about faculty development programs at EIOH, it would be best to contact the institution directly or check their official website. These programs typically focus on enhancing teaching, research, and leadership skills, with requirements such as engaging in a structured curriculum, developing and implementing projects, attending workshops and seminars, being mentored by experienced faculty members, and undergoing regular assessment and evaluation.
Dr. Jin Xiao, DDS, PhD, EIOH associate professor, is proud of Dr. Alkhars' achievements and looks forward to seeing her continued contributions to the dental field.
Dr. Alkhars' achievements in completing her PhD and becoming an assistant professor at Kuwait University are evidence of her commitment to both her personal growth and career development, as well as her passion for education that started during her time at the Eastman Institute for Oral Health (EIOH). The EIOH program, which requires participants to engage in learning opportunities such as engaging in a structured curriculum, developing and implementing projects, and undergoing regular assessment and evaluation, has played a significant role in her ongoing learning and self-development.
