Oral Health Research Connect - April 2026

Abstract

The Oral Health Research Connect (OHRC) seminar series, organised by the Sydney Dental School, aims to foster a culture of research across the school, it’s partner Local Health Districts and other oral health stakeholders.

The OHRC will achieve this through engagement and collaboration in a respectful, safe, constructive and positive discussion. It will be a research capacity and capability development opportunity for students, academics and clinicians. It will serve as a nexus for idea generation and research translation.

Our Guest Speakers & Presentation Topic • How can AI support the early detection and prevention in oral healthcare, by reusing clinical data? - Laura Swinckels

Laura will outline the research she conducted across her PhD about the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) to support early detection and prevention in oral healthcare. She will show the value of preventive EHR data for early detection and prevention of oral diseases, and the clinical readiness of AI. Together, these stages form an overarching framework for AI in preventive oral healthcare, centred on reusing existing EHR data and the conditions required for clinical adoption. • Unlocking CAT2 Consultancy and Tender Opportunities: Supporting Research Impact Through Industry & Government Engagement - Rachel Wrigley

This session offers a practical introduction to Category 2 and 3 funding; competitive tenders and fee-for-service consultancies, as a pathway to research impact and income diversification. Drawing on real Faculty case studies, we will cover the current oral health funding landscape, who the key commissioners are (government, ADA, industry, international bodies), how to assess and pursue opportunities, and the full support available through FMH Enterprise & Partnerships. Attendees will leave with a clear picture of where their expertise creates competitive opportunities and how to take the next step.