Apply for the $70k Torch Dental Scholarship Award

TORCH dental scholarship provides a $70k funding opportunity for American-African descent in a dental post-doc program.

About the Torch Dental Scholarship

The Colgate-Palmolive Company (Colgate) and the National Dental Association Foundation (NDAF) introduced the Trailblazers in Oral Health Research Scholars of African Heritage (TORCH) fellowship to support post-doctoral biomedical and dental clinician-scientists of African descent. This initiative aims to promote scientific research in oral health, particularly in communities of color, and to address the underrepresentation of scientists of color in the field. The program emphasizes Colgate and NDAF’s commitment to fostering diversity within the oral health profession while advancing impactful research that benefits minority communities. You may interested in the $40k DTA Foundation Dental Scholarship

Value of the Torch Dental Scholarship

The TORCH Fellowship offers recipients several valuable benefits:

1. Professional Development:
   • Provides extensive professional growth opportunities, including mentorship from industry leaders and exposure to the dental industry.
2. Financial Award:
   • Grants a substantial award of $70,000 to support the recipient’s work and research.
3. Research Support:
   • Funds can be allocated to cover the recipient’s salary or stipend, research materials, and essential supplies.
4. Travel Allowance:
   • Includes up to $10,000 to cover travel expenses for research-related events, conferences, or networking opportunities.
5. Exclusions:
   • The fellowship explicitly excludes institutional overhead costs, ensuring that the funds are directed solely to support the recipient’s research and professional development.
6. Recognition:
   • Awardees are announced at the prestigious National Dental Association Annual Convention, showcasing top talent from communities of color.

Eligibility for the Dental Scholarship

To be eligible for this dental scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Current Post-Doctoral Fellow/Researcher: Applicants must be actively engaged in post-doctoral research or studies.

2. Strong Letters of Support: Candidates should provide compelling letters of recommendation, showcasing their professional reputation and potential.

3. Academic Achievements and Recognitions: The applicant’s educational background, honors, and recognitions will be evaluated as part of the selection process.

5. Capacity for Independent Work: Demonstrating the ability to conduct independent research is essential. Applicants must also commit to pursuing oral health research for at least one year post-training.
6. Event Presentations: Scholarship recipients must be available to present their research at the NDAF events
7. Final Report and Manuscript Submission: Upon completing the research, applicants must submit a comprehensive final report and develop a manuscript suitable for submission to a top-tier scientific journal.

These criteria ensure that scholarship recipients are well-qualified and committed to advancing the field of dental research.

Application Documents

To apply for the TORCH Dental scholarship, you will need the following documents:

1. Written Narrative (1000 words or less)

A detailed account of your oral health research journey and aspirations. This should highlight your personal experiences, challenges, and motivations in the field of oral health research.

2. Abstract of Research

Provide an abstract of your intended or current research in one of the following areas: 

   – Odor control solutions 

   – Enamel health 

   – Microbiome-host response 

   – Tissue integrity/repair 

   – Oral hygiene among specialized populations 

   – Oral health promotion and literacy 

   – Advances in new clinical measures (diagnostics)

3. Letters of Recommendation (Three required):

   – One must be from an academic mentor. 

   – These letters will carry substantial weight in the evaluation process and should reflect your academic and research capabilities.

4. Proof of PhD or DDS/DMD Completion

Documentation confirming your completion of either a PhD or DDS/DMD program, along with evidence of current participation in a post-doctoral program.

5. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

A detailed CV showcasing your academic, research, and professional achievements.

6. Professional Photo

A formal photograph to accompany your application.

7. Description of Post-doctoral Program (500 words or less)

A summary of the post-doctoral program in which you are currently participating. This should include details about the research focus, objectives, and the role you are playing.

8. Total Cost of Post-graduate Program

Provide the estimated total cost of your post-graduate program, including tuition, research expenses, and living costs.

9. Stipend from Other Sources (if applicable)

Mention any financial assistance or stipend you are currently receiving or will receive from other sources, if any.

10. Letter from Sponsoring Institution

A formal letter from your sponsoring institution confirming their agreement with the conditions of the award and their support for your post-doctoral endeavors.

These documents are essential to provide a comprehensive understanding of your qualifications, research objectives, and institutional support for your academic journey.

How to Apply for the TORCH Dental Scholarship

Application for the TORCH dental scholarship is entirely online. You can access the application portal to complete your scholarship application.

For more information, visit the official website