To be a CTOR member and fellow was one of my dreams, since my friend told me that there is an excellent chance to do Orthodontic research at CTOR. I said “Wow! This is what I want!” Luckily, my dream came true. I could study here with my brilliant mentor-- Dr. Mani Alikhani, a lot of extraordinary scientists, and our intelligent fellows. We are a big family here. Although we come from different countries of the world, we help each other, learn from each other, like each other, and grow together.
Everybody spares no effort on different projects. My study focuses on suture remodeling under mechanical force through molecular biology techniques and animal studies to test. It helps and tries to interpret latest experimental research and pursuing more biologically sound answers to the real-world clinical questions that confront orthodontists every moment. Through participating in new trials and utilizing the skills I acquire, I can understand the close relationship between basic science research and clinical practices. The more you give, the more you gain. I’m very proud to be one of CTORers, this is a place where I can start flying to the bright scientific sky.
— Jie Deng, '15
CTOR is the perfect place that offers an opportunity to learn, improve, and develop my basic science research foundation. I believe that to be an outstanding orthodontist, one would not only have to be proficient with their clinical skills but also have an excellent research background. The CTOR fellowship allowed me to learn about many techniques in histology , molecular biology and biomaterials, and also taught me to be a good investigator and a great presenter at both national and international meetings. CTOR offered me a robust experience and inspires me to even further dedicate my life to biological science and helped me determine my future education and career goals.
— Pornpan Hiranpradit, '15
"When I read about what CTOR has been doing for the advancement of Orthodontics and Dentofacial Orthopedics, I just wanted to become a Fellow to work in those research projects. CTOR Program has given me the opportunity to learn how to do basic science research and to grow professionally learning from different scientist at NYUCD. The program has also allowed me to meet other scientists at HSS (Hospital for Special Surgery) and Sloan Kettering Cancer Center which have been very helpful teaching me different techniques. My first year at CTOR was very enriching which made me think seriously about continuing for one more year to complete the projects I was working on. The program has taught me critical thinking and how to offer better and safer treatments to patients. I am absolutely confident that being at CTOR will help me to become a better clinician. CTOR, an experience I will never regret."
— José Alejandro López Aguirre, '14
"CTOR is the home for the most current scientific findings explaining the biological nature of the growth and development the craniofacial complex with impeccable detail and precision. To be a part of this incredible movement has been the most rewarding experience. In one short year, I have developed an extensive understanding of the current knowledge on growth and development, and under the mentorship of Dr. Alikhani, I was able to challenge many of those theories and to develop my own. Working with Dr. Alikhani has been an honor and a privilege. His profound understanding of the craniofacial complex and contagious passion for unraveling the true biological nature of its growth, and how to manipulate that in our benefit has been eye opening experience that I will carry with me for the rest of my career. "
— Sarah Alansari, '13
"CTOR allowed me the opportunity to ask questions and seek answers. Not only did it teach me the fundamentals of basic science research; but it allowed me to think broadly and design my own experiments... I believe a great clinician is someone who is motivated to learn and solve complex problems. I believe CTOR has helped reinforce these principles and has allowed me to apply these fundamental principles into practice. Evidence based practice is an essential part of healthcare. Clinicians should not be content with current knowledge and should seek to learn more. Having a research background allows clinicians the ability to search for the answers they are longing to understand and enhance treatment rendered to patients."
— Rachel Kwal, '12
"CTOR was my gate to the orthodontic research arena. I was aware of the role of research in advancing the orthodontic field. More importantly, I realized that by conducting research focusing on detailed anatomical, physiological, and molecular level, I am able to better understand and focus the treatment in clinical setting. For this reason, I decided to join the program to become a qualified orthodontist with a comprehensive, strong, and competitive research background. The program was not only a chance to develop laboratory animal research skills; it also provided me with a deeper understanding of craniofacial development, an essential component in orthodontics."
— Asma A Almaidhan, '12
" CTOR program enriched my postgraduate education and developed my research skills and critical thinking. By interacting with leading scientists at NYU and affiliated schools around the world, I was able to build a foundation of research skills and ideas that helped me to develop my research projects. This opportunity allowed me to participate in many national and international meetings to share knowledge with other scientists. As orthodontic resident, CTOR offered me a sold knowledge on understanding the molecular and biological bases of orthodontic treatment and widened my horizon regarding the new directions of research and treatment methods in my field. CTOR prepares future scientists who will lead our profession by getting best training and allowing young investigators to prosper. Definitely, there is no limit of what we can learn in CTOR"
— Salem Almoamar, '11
"If we wish to enhance our care in Dentistry and prevent making the same mistakes over and over again, we must rely on evidence based medicine research. Only when understanding the reasons behind it one could become a better clinician.
You cannot separate clinical orthodontic from academics. They must co-exist for every decision on every patient. Science and research must form the basis for our treatment plans."
— We-Hsin Hong, '11
