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Scholarship Center

University of Bern, School of Dental Medicine

Department of Oral Surgery and Stomatology Division of Oral Diagnostic Sciences

 

About the Scholarship Center

The ITI Scholar program in Oral Surgery and Stomatology offers an exceptional learning experience designed for those who are passionate about advancing their expertise in oral surgery and implant dentistry. The program is thoughtfully structured, with 60% of the time dedicated to patient care, 20% to research, and 20% to enriching didactic activities. Scholars will have the opportunity to engage directly in treatment planning, assist in both simple and complex surgeries, and immerse themselves in innovative research, with potential for publication in leading journals.

Although ITI Scholars are not involved in direct patient treatment by themself, they play an essential role in supporting experienced clinicians and residents, as well as gaining invaluable insights into the practice of oral surgery and implant dentistry. The program includes a comprehensive theoretical curriculum, totaling approximately 150 hours over the year, related to the field of oral surgery, stomatology, and implant dentistry. Lectures and courses are primarily conducted in English, though German is also used for some sessions.

Scholars will have access to world-class educational opportunities, including specialized courses with a focus on cutting-edge topics like implant therapy, bone grafting, and esthetic implant dentistry. Notable offerings include the ITI Education Week and other Continuing Education (CE) courses. This is an exciting opportunity to collaborate with leading surgeons, participate in research, and refine your skills in a dynamic, supportive environment. By joining this program, ITI Scholars gain unparalleled exposure to advanced techniques, innovative treatments, and pioneering studies, setting the stage for a successful and impactful career.

Scholarship Center Chairs

Scholarship Center Chair
Prof. Dr. Vivianne Chappuis

Department of Oral Surgery and Stomatology Division of Oral Diagnostic Sciences

Scholarship Center Co-Chair
Dr. Emilio Couso

Department of Oral Surgery and Stomatology Division of Oral Diagnostic Sciences

Activities

Activities during the Scholarship year

Clinical activities the ITI Scholar will participate in during the Scholarship year
Treatment planning sessions
Performing oral hygiene procedures and maintenance
Observing patient treatment
Assisting in patient treatment
Treating patients under faculty supervision: placing implants
Treating patients under faculty supervision: restoring implants
Treating patients alone: placing implants
Treating patients alone: restoring implants
Laboratory and procedures associated with treatment
Postgraduate education/specialization
Postgraduate training in the following specialty/one of the following specialties is a must
Postgraduate training in the following specialty/one of the following specialties is an advantage: Oral Surgery, Periodontists, and Prosthodontists
Min. three years of professional clinical experience as a qualified dentist required
Min. three years of professional clinical experience as a qualified dentist including implant dentistry required
Research activities the ITI Scholar will participate in during the Scholarship year
Involvement in preclinical research
Involvement in translational research
Involvement in clinical research
Coordinated involvement with existing center research activities
Mentors will be assigned to the Scholar according to their research preference
Scholars will be able to start their own research projects
Research experience required
Research experience supported by peer-reviewed scientific publications (original papers) is a must.
Research experience supported by peer-reviewed scientific publications (original papers) is desired.
No research experience required.
Additional information on the research activities

The scholar will have the opportunity to be involved in ongoing research projects within the department. During their stay, they may bring research data from their home institutions or develop new ideas that can be completed within the one-year scholarship period.

During the scholarship year, the Scholar's time will be allocated to the activities below as follows (estimate)

60%
Patient care
20%
Research
20%
Didactic
Language requirements

Fluency in English is required. Basic language skills in German, French, Italian or Spanish are an advantage.

Additional Information

ITI Scholars will have the opportunity to take part in all implant therapy-related CE courses offered by the School of Dental Medicine, including the ITI Education Week and Master Courses on bone grafting and in esthetic implant dentistry. ITI Scholars are invited to get involved in a research project that results in a publication.

Cost of living

We strongly advise you to consider cost of living (housing/rent, food, transportation, etc.) in the city of this ITI Scholarship Center, as certain destinations can be very expensive. It is essential to understand that the ITI scholarship stipend does not cover all living expenses but only contributes to these. Therefore, make sure you are fully aware of the cost of living in the city of this Scholarship Center if you consider applying for it. You must be prepared to co-finance the cost of living out of your own pocket. The ITI cannot provide additional funding during the scholarship year.

Contact details

Prof. Dr. Vivianne Chappuis
Chair

Department of Oral Surgery and Stomatology Division of Oral Diagnostic Sciences
Freiburgstrasse 7
3010 Bern
Switzerland

Email: [email protected]

Dr Emilio Couso
Co-Chair

Department of Oral Surgery and Stomatology Division of Oral Diagnostic Sciences
Freiburgstrasse 7
3010 Bern
Switzerland

Email: [email protected]

A life-changing experience - Insights from past Scholars

Hear from past Scholars as they reflect on their ITI scholarship year and its impact on their professional journey.

Scholar
May 4, 2026
Dr Jennifer Tojokro
Scholar
May 4, 2026
Dr Engin Özgür