By combining unique expertise with diverse global perspectives, the INSPiRE Oral Health Consortium seeks to drive transformative research, education, and innovation in oral health and allied disciplines by delivering equitable, evidence-based solutions that improve the health and well-being of communities around the world.

University of Saskatchewan - College of Dentistry (Canada)

Dean:  Dr. Walter Siqueira

The University of Saskatchewan’s College of Dentistry, located in Saskatoon, is a fully accredited dental school recognized for excellence in research and teaching. It promotes interdisciplinary research in areas such as oral proteomics, biofilm, biomaterials, fibrosis, and AI in dentistry. A state-of-the-art Simulation Learning Centre with augmented reality ensures students excel in theory and practice.

Programs include the four-year Doctor of Dental Medicine (DMD), International Dental Degree Program (IDDP), dual DMD/MBA, Bachelor of Science in Dental Therapy, and a Dental Assisting certificate. Advanced research degrees, including Master’s and PhD in Precision Oral and Systemic Health (POSH), prepare graduates for impactful careers in oral health.

Peking University – School of Stomatology (China)

Dean:  Dr. Xuliang Deng

Established in 1941, Peking University School of Stomatology (PKU-SS) is China’s premier institution for dental education, research, and clinical care. It integrates a top-ranked hospital with 15 clinical departments, 8 technical labs, and 11 service divisions, serving over 2 million patients annually.

Rated “A+” in the National Discipline Assessment, PKU-SS hosts 945 students, 22 research groups, and advanced facilities, including national research platforms and testing centers. Home to four prestigious international training centers and partnerships with 48 global institutions, PKU-SS is recognized as a global leader in oral health innovation.

University of São Paulo – School of Dentistry (Brazil)

Director:  Dr. Giuseppe Romito

Founded in 1900, the School of Dentistry at the University of São Paulo (FOUSP) is Latin America’s leading dental school and among the world’s top 20, ranked 1st regionally by CWUR and 9th globally by QS. With 125 years of excellence, FOUSP combines cutting-edge research, advanced clinical practice, and community outreach.

Its seven departments cover all major dental specialties, supported by modern clinics with 200+ offices, laser labs, tele-dentistry, and simulation facilities. FOUSP offers undergraduate, graduate, and extension programs, fostering ethical, skilled professionals. International partnerships and impactful research solidify FOUSP’s role as a global innovator in dentistry.

Universidade Católica Portuguesa – Faculty of Dental Medicine (Portugal)

Director:  Dr. Marlene Barros

Founded in 2000, the Faculty of Dental Medicine at Universidade Católica Portuguesa (FMD-UCP) in Viseu is a leading institution in dental education, research, and community service. Its mission is to transform lives through innovative programs like the Integrated Master’s in Dental Medicine, Biomedical Sciences, and specialized postgraduate courses. Research is driven by CIIS platforms—SalivaTec and Precision Dental Medicine—developing advanced diagnostic and digital solutions.

The University Dental Clinic promotes oral health and literacy, especially for vulnerable populations. With projects like InovPed and the new Center for Digital Education in Dental Medicine (CED-MeD), FMD-UCP pioneers pedagogical innovation and digital transformation in dentistry.

University of Otago – Faculty of Dentistry (New Zealand)

Dean:  Dr. Paul Cooper

Founded in 1907, the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of Otago is New Zealand’s National Centre for Dentistry and a leading dental school in Oceania. Ranked among the world’s top 50 dental schools, it is renowned for clinical and research excellence.The Faculty offers undergraduate programs in Dentistry, Oral Health, and Dental Technology, as well as advanced postgraduate training and continuing professional development.

With state-of-the-art facilities and a strong commitment to innovation, it prepares skilled professionals and fosters global leadership in oral health through education, research, and patient care.

University of the Western Cape – Faculty of Dentistry (South Africa)  

Dean:  Prof. Veerasamy Yengopal  

As the largest dental school in Africa and a WHO Oral Health Collaborating Centre, the Faculty of Dentistry at the University of the Western Cape is an internationally recognized center of excellence dedicated to advancing oral health through superior education, research, clinical service, and community engagement. It provides rigorous undergraduate and postgraduate programs supported by a comprehensive clinical training platform.  

Core clinical activities are based at the Academic Oral Health Centres in Tygerberg and Mitchells Plain, with additional services delivered at major hospitals, community clinics, and through mobile outreach initiatives. These diverse settings enable students to refine clinical skills while addressing critical oral health needs in underserved communities.   

1. Launch of advanced training programs 

• Bring together students from each member university through the creation of interactive online modules, courses, and/or group projects.  
• Students may present their research during the March JWC meeting.    
• One-week intensive course held each June immediately following the INSPiRE Oral Health Symposium, featuring hands-on workshops and expert-led sessions.  Up to 5 students may participate from each member university.   

 2. PhD research collaboration and student mobility  

• Establish a collective mechanism for PhD students to spend up to 6 months at member universities for research experiences.  
• At USask, a Visiting Research Student program exists that could serve as a model.  More information can be found here: https://grad.usask.ca/admissions/alternate-applicants/visiting-research-student.php  

 3. Formation of a saliva research group 

• Form a specialized subgroup composed of interdisciplinary researchers.  
• Each member university will nominate 2 or 3 researchers to participate in the group.  

The INSPiRE Oral Health Symposium will be held annually each June, serving as the capstone event for the consortium’s academic year. Designed as a two-day gathering—with optional cultural, team-building, and collaborative activities before or after—the symposium brings together researchers identified by each member university based on themes set by the Joint Working Committee (JWC).

Responsibility for hosting the symposium rotates among member institutions, with the university serving as Chair of the JWC taking the lead each year. This rotating model ensures global engagement, shared leadership, and diverse academic and cultural experiences for all participants.

In 2025, the symposium was hosted by Peking University in Beijing, China from June 9–12, aligned with the China International Dental Exhibition and Scientific Conference.

In 2026, the symposium will be hosted by the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, Canada from June 18–20, coinciding with a national conference occurring at the same time.